Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Punta de Tralca (Agenzia Fides) - The Bishops of the Bishops' Conference of Chile have issued a message to the country at the close of the 98th Plenary Assembly, held in Punta de Tralca. The pastors called on citizens to play a more active role in the electoral process. "We encourage all to seek appropriate information and to participate in discussions on issues relevant to the country, such as life, human dignity, marriage and family, education, work, health, housing, respect for the environment, concern for our native peoples, peaceful and intercultural coexistence, at the light of the Gospel. We also ask candidates to offer the country, with the greatest clarity and depth, proposals and projects for these areas," the statement says.
The meeting reflected on the process of the Continental Mission, and in this context, the Bishops committed themselves, with all their might, so that Chile can become a "table for everyone." Citing the Pope's latest encyclical, they recalled that true development always includes the human being in his fullness and all mankind. It is not limited to finances, it also requires a vision of the transcendental and spiritual person and calls for special care for human life and true freedom, for the promotion of authentic relationships, in particular within the family, the quality of education, the growth of man's duties and the exercise of justice and solidarity for all. They also mentioned the social responsibility of the state and businesses, so that growth can be equal for all citizens.
Bishops hope that all believers will exercise their right to vote with a well-formed conscience, consistent with the core beliefs of Christianity. "Prayer will give us the wisdom to better work for the good of Chile," they write. Finally, they expressed their gratitude for the 25th anniversary of the signing the treaty of peace and friendship with their sister nation of Argentina, inspired by John Paul II, and entrusted the Virgin Mary, Queen of Peace, with the good of Chile at this time of optimism and hope. The Assembly ended with a Mass that was presided by Archbishop Faustino Sainz, Apostolic Nuncio to Great Britain, who accompanied Cardinal Antonio Samorè in the process of papal mediation between Chile and Argentina in the maritime dispute. (CE) (Agenzia Fides 21/11/2009)
