Bishop Davide Carraro, a PIME missionary was appointed Bishop of Oran, Algeria, in late 2023, and oversees the Pierre Claverie Centre, the most important Catholic center in his diocese. The Center, where Blessed Pierre Claverie is buried, plays an important role in fostering interreligious and intercultural dialogue. To strengthen its mission, Bishop Carraro requested support from the PIME U.S. Mission Center, as $5,556 is needed annually to host and accommodate visitors such as church members, migrants, travelers, and Sub-Saharan students. In 2026, and additional project for $9,444 will support commemorative events within the “Year of Pierre Claverie – Living Together and in Peace”, marking the 30th anniversary of the martyrdom of Blessed Pierre Claverie, Bishop of Oran.
Blessed Pierre Claverie was assassinated on August 1, 1996, during Algeria’s decade of terrorism, together with Mohammed, his Muslim driver. Their shared death stands as a lasting symbol of Christian–Muslim friendship and commitment to peace. This anniversary is especially significant in Algeria, where 99.9% of the population is Muslim and the Catholic community represents less than 0.01% of the population.
The project aims to renew the Christian community, preserve the Church’s recent historical memory, and strengthen bonds of friendship and interreligious dialogue with the wider Algerian population. The Pierre Claverie Center promotes fraternity and harmony between those of different generations and cultures, among different Christian denominations, between Christians and Muslims, and among those of different social classes. Through a message of the love that dwells in us all, all are welcomed at the Center. Your support for this project will promote unity among people and religions in Algeria at a time when it is most needed.
Leader