We, followers of St. Francis of Assisi, the saint of peace, find ourselves together as members of the International Council for Justice, Peace and the Integrity of Creation at Mission San Luis Rey in Oceanside, California. We are representatives of our fellow Franciscans in the Order of Friars Minor, and our task is to advise, encourage and help them and all people of good will in areas that concern the well-being of those with whom we share this planet.

For two weeks we have listened to reports on the work in which we are involved, and have reflected on our continuing response to the many concerns that arose in the process. We have highlighted: HIV/AIDS and the numerous conflicts in Africa; the proposed Free Trade Agreement and increasing levels of poverty in Latin America; growing xenophobia in Europe leading to increased hardships for refugees and migrants; and the negative effects of globalization as experienced by poor people everywhere.

A major preoccupation expressed by all participants is the ongoing threat posed by the attitude of the governments of the United States of America and the United Kingdom in their relations with the government of Iraq. War is an abomination, and a war in Iraq will not provide a lasting solution to the present situation and will cause the death of hundreds of thousands of people. We strongly oppose violence in any form. We believe in peace, and that the path to true peace is through dialogue. We therefore urge all of the parties involved to step back from the brink of war and to use every means available to further a just and equitable resolution to the present impasse.

In the spirit of Saint Francis, who greeted everyone with the words ÒPeace and All Good,Ó we pray that our call for peace, which is replicated by many others throughout the world, be heard and acted upon.

International Council for Justice, Peace and the Integrity of Creation

Order of Friars Minor

Oceanside, California