In Africa, violence is not just a fear, it is a fact of life.

“It is hard to find someone in the continent who hasn’t been affected by the crisis, directly or indirectly,” The Rev. Agbonkhianmeghe Orobator, S.J., an African native said.

He believes everyone who resides in Africa has been affected somehow by the violence.

Orobator spoke at the Harper Center about his experiences of violence, conflict and the importance of religion in Africa.

Orobator is an accomplished speaker, author and a respected figure in social ethics, said Dr. Ron Simkins, professor of theology, who helped organize the event that was sponsored by the Creighton University Kripke Center for the Study of Religion and Society.

Orobator touched on how the conflict between religions and politics affects Africa.

“Africa paints a picture of conflict— The business of conflict and the economy of war still preys on Africa,” Orobator said. “The church’s role is limited to picking up the pieces.”

Simkins said the speaker helped people learn more about the African conflict and inspired them to become involved.

Simkins believes students should constantly inform themselves and keep an open mind on current topics.

“Part of academic institutions is an academic life—expanding the mind is a lifestyle and a further way of developing oneself,” Simkins said.

Orobator challenged the students and faculty members to volunteer for a civil society, to promote democracy, to promote the common good and to help stimulate Africa’s economy.

One of the most important steps in doing this is to become informed, Orobator said.

“Understanding can create good in context to religious conflicts,” Orobator said.

Arts & Sciences freshman Bridget McQuillan attended Orobator’s speech. She decided to go because she had always been interested in Africa and plans to go on a service trip there next summer.

McQuillan was surprised to find that the speech covered not just religion in Africa but politics and ways to get involved. She found the angle Orobator’s speech took especially refreshing.

“I have only heard about Africa through American newspapers and news channels, but hearing about it from someone who actually lives there made it more interesting, and it made me care about helping more,” McQuillan said.

Orobator’s main point was that the conflict of religion in the African culture helps set the stage for political violence.

He said the best way to help is to inform people of the violence, volunteer and support those affected by the violence.

“[Africa] could be different,” Orobator said. “And that is the challenge for the future.”