Letter

My dear Friend

Heartiest congratulations on your 72nd Birthday.

We all dream of a world of where peace will emerge victorious over strife. You have given your life to work for these dreams of peace and reconciliation to come true. You strive for the oneness of all peoples, especially by reaching out to the youth. Your international centres, and your music, art, writings and athletics all dedicated to peace — are offering hope and encouragement to so many people on our planet.

As I have travelled and taught throughout the world, I see clearly that by joining together with our common quest for a better world, we the children of God can indeed create that world. I am so happy that you also have this same approach — working one person, one heart, one child at a time for humanity’s progress.

I specially offer you my sincere appreciation for the large amounts of humanitarian aid which you and your Centres have been sending to so many parts of the world, including to South Africa. This is yet another wonderful expression of God’s love and concern for all his children!

May God bless you to continue with your wonderful service for many, many more years to come.

Desmond M Tutu Archbishop Emeritus