The Church of Ireland Primate, Archbishop Robin Eames, has said that the people of the North are slowly learning that reconciliation will grow out of respect for political, religious and cultural differences.
Dr Eames was speaking last night in Strasbourg at the opening of the European Parliament.
"In Northern Ireland we are struggling to find practical ways of making reconciliation a way of life," he said.
"Reconciliation cannot be achieved by legislation alone. Reconciliation cannot be obtained by a stroke of a parliamentary pen. Reconciliation is a process, and without hearts and minds willing to accept its importance, reconciliation will remain an aspiration only," he said.
"The battle for reconciliation is a battle for hearts and minds. Far from being a word of weakness or surrender, true reconciliation among people is a sign of mature strength.
"In Northern Ireland, we long for peace and lasting stability. But we are slowly learning the message that real reconciliation, the appreciation and acceptance of difference, will only become a reality when people see it is a state of understanding and genuine respect for political, religious and cultural difference.
"That point will be reached when accommodation of difference is possible through respect and human dignity.
"The history of my country is stained by the blood of those whose lives have been sacrificed in violent struggle. Today we pray that the historic lesson is being learned that we cannot built a just society encompassing difference on violence.
"Justice, equality and respect are the key words. As we approach a new millennium that lesson from Ireland has so much to share with the greater Europe of which we are a part."