AMERICA/VENEZUELA - Statement of the Bishops in view of the elections

Caracas (Agenzia Fides) - The Standing Commission of the Episcopal Conference of Venezuela sends a message to the people of God in view of the legislative elections for the renewal of the unicameral Parliament, scheduled for December 6. In this context, she reaffirms what had already been declared: "far from contributing to the democratic resolution of the political situation that we are currently experiencing, they tend to worsen it and will not help to solve the real problems of the people" (see Fides, 19/10/2020).
At the same time, the Bishops re-launch the urgent appeal "to all those who dedicate their efforts to politics and to the various civil society organizations, to continue to make common efforts to restore the nation's democratic rights". They therefore recall that all initiatives are necessary and important, such as popular consultation, as "people have full right to express themselves through the legitimate channels guaranteed by the Constitution, by expressing their opinion as an authentic social subject".
Faithful to their ministry as Pastors and as citizens of Venezuela, the Bishops invite "to a serious discernment that will lead us to seek a just, peaceful, democratic and negotiated resolution among all Venezuelans, to the multifaceted crisis that is affecting Venezuela". They therefore exhort not to be overwhelmed by discouragement. On the contrary, "we must continue to do everything possible and to work for the unity, peace and prosperity of the nation, putting the common good first".
In the message, the Bishops underline that "the Venezuelan people certainly yearn for a peaceful change of the situation, a change for which they want to express themselves through the vote, under fair, equitable and equal conditions for the parties. Otherwise, turning our backs on each other, without recognizing and accepting each other, any result will strengthen the confrontation more than the sincere search for a solution in which everyone has a part. Without meeting each other, without mutual recognition and without authentic dialogue, no solution leading to well-being and fraternity can be found".
The Bishops invoke the intercession of Venerable José Gregorio Hernández and Our Lady of Coromoto, the loving Mother who accompanies us and who, "has given us the wonderful gift of the great liberator of all humanity, whose birth we will celebrate next Christmas, Jesus, the Lord". (SL) (Agenzia Fides, 2/12/2020)

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