Bishop lays out full extent of persecution of Christians in Algeria. Shocking decision by Pope Leo not to visit Tibhirine Monastery where all but two of the community were martyred in 1996.

Bishop Rey: "The pressure from the Algerian authorities is unacceptable; this is a state that wants to impose the Muslim faith."

"I deeply regret that Pope Leo XIV is not going to visit Tibhirine."

On the occasion of Pope Leo XIV's trip to Africa, and more specifically his visit today and tomorrow to Algeria, we wanted to hear a voice other than the general consensus that some are trying to project. Beyond the official pronouncements, this interview gives a voice to Bishop Rey, former bishop of the Diocese of Fréjus-Toulon, who is attentive to the reality experienced by the Christian communities there:

Why did you co-sign this opinion piece in the JDD (Journal du Dimanche) dedicated to the threat of religious freedom in Algeria?

I know several Arab and Kabyle Christians who have opened up to me and shared their perspectives. I am deeply moved by their testimonies and the overall situation of Christians in Algeria, whether Catholic, Protestant, or Orthodox. I am particularly concerned about the plight of Christians who are facing near-persecution. In Algeria, we are witnessing increasingly significant restrictions on the exercise of worship and religious practice. Freedom of belief must be respected, and I have therefore taken this opportunity to express, alongside other testimonies, this conviction that I share.

What are your thoughts on the Pope's visit and the remarks of Cardinal Jean-Paul Vesco?

Cardinal Vesco speaks of a meeting between the Pope and the Algerian people, which is excellent in itself, but it is also essential to address the issues of tension, particularly the marginalization of Christian communities following the recent legal restrictions.

What do you think of Pope Leo XIV's decision not to visit Tibhirine?

I deeply regret that this visit is not taking place, given that the martyrdom of all these witnesses of the faith marks a significant part of the religious history of Christians in Algeria. The legitimate concern for promoting fraternity requires transparency regarding the current situation of Christians, who deserve to be respected so that they can live their faith freely. Seeking excessive consensus leads us away from the truth.

How would you describe the current situation of Christians in Algeria?

The pressure exerted by the current authorities in Algeria is unacceptable. This also aligns with the principle of secularism, in its true sense, which must allow everyone to express their belief or lack thereof. This distinction is not being made in Algeria today; it is a state that seeks to impose the Muslim faith.

Is the Vatican aware of this reality?

I believe the Holy See authorities have received testimonies from Christian communities deeply wounded by the current situation. The Vatican is seeking to re-establish dialogue, but diplomacy and dialogue must also incorporate and address the expression of difficulties, trials, and suffering.

Have you ever been to Algeria?

Yes, I have been several times, including a pilgrimage to Tamanrasset, following in the footsteps of Blessed Charles de Foucauld. I also went to Tibhirine a few years after the massacre of the monks. I prayed at their tomb, which is located within the monastery grounds.

Interview by Philippe Marie

Source

The monastery is now run by the Chemin Neuf, Catholic-inspired ecumenical charismatics.  Background.  

Many rather depressing stories about Chemin Neuf