Joseph Isangura
As Christians marked Christmas, the Archbishop of the Catholic Archdiocese of Dar es Salaam, Jude Thaddeus Ruwa’ichi, has urged Tanzanians to reflect deeply on the meaning of the season, stressing that justice must come before peace if society is to enjoy genuine harmony.
Speaking during the Christmas Eve (Midnight) Mass held on December 24, 2025, at St Joseph’s Metropolitan Cathedral in Dar es Salaam, Archbishop Ruwa’ichi reminded worshippers that the birth of Jesus Christ is not only a moment of celebration, but also a powerful call to moral responsibility. He said Christmas should inspire believers and the wider community to live out the values exemplified by Christ, with justice standing out as one of the most important.
In a candid and reflective homily, the Archbishop observed that many people readily identify themselves as advocates of peace, yet shy away from the demands of justice. He warned that such an approach weakens society and creates an illusion of stability that cannot last.
“Many people claim to love peace, but they are not prepared to defend justice,” he said. “Some do this out of ignorance, others because they are misled, and some for personal reasons. But peace without justice is not real peace.”
Archbishop Ruwa’ichi explained that true peace cannot be achieved by ignoring wrongdoing or suppressing truth in the name of calm. Instead, he said, peace grows naturally when justice is upheld, truth is respected, and people are treated with dignity. According to him, avoiding justice only delays problems and allows wounds within society to deepen.
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Drawing from the Christmas message, the Archbishop noted that Christ’s humble birth is itself a lesson in justice and solidarity with the vulnerable. He said Jesus came into the world to challenge unfair systems and to restore hope to those who feel excluded or oppressed. This message, he added, remains relevant today as communities continue to grapple with inequality, dishonesty, and abuse of power.
He urged Tanzanians to see justice not as an abstract concept, but as a daily practice that begins with individual choices. “If you want to call yourself a person of peace, commit yourself to justice and stand firmly for the truth,” he said, adding that justice must be reflected in families, workplaces, institutions, and national life.
The Archbishop also emphasized the role of faith leaders in guiding society, saying religious institutions have a duty to speak openly when justice is threatened. He noted that faith should never be reduced to ritual alone, but should inspire courage, honesty, and compassion.
The Mass ended with prayers for unity and peace in Tanzania and across the world, with a strong reminder that lasting peace is built on the firm foundation of justice. For many in attendance, the message served as a timely reflection on the deeper meaning of Christmas — a season that calls not only for joy and generosity, but also for fairness, truth, and responsibility toward one another.
