Archbishop of Australia Makarios has declared the importance of not falling victim to narcotics to mark the occasion of International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
Archbishop Makarios delivered a message in recognition of the annual UN day, flagging the “undeclared and often invisible war” with drugs which affects hundreds of thousands of lives every year and inflicts pain, sorrow, and despair.
He especially raised concern over the impact of drugs on youth, stressing the imperativeness of continuing to fight against it.
“Today we are called to reflect on this invisible war and the insidious enemy that lurks to destroy our children,” Archbishop Makarios said in his message.
“We are called to send a clear message that nothing true and bright in life is achieved through the use of narcotics.”
He stressed the necessity of both guiding youth to avoid drugs while also helping users wishing to overcome their addiction.
“Our local Church serves and will continue to serve this sacred purpose, standing alongside those already trapped in the clutches of drugs, struggling to escape the nightmare of addiction,” Archbishop Makarios said.
“We declare unequivocally that there is an escape from this nightmare…and we are here to inspire, support, and extend a helping hand to those striving to break free.”
He concluded his message by saying: “Let us become beacons of hope for those returning from darkness, striving to emerge into the light of a true life. A life without drugs!”
