Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Caracas (Agenzia Fides) - "The proposed constitutional reform is not partial, it is radical. We are asked to approve completely new founding aspects for social life, most of which are contrary to fundamental human rights for social harmony". This was affirmed in a statement by Venezuela's National Council of Lay Catholics on behalf of public opinion since Venezuela is a Catholic country and in support of a statement issued by the local Bishops “Called to Live in Freedom ” (see Fides 22/10/2007).
The Council says the reform procedure is unconstitutional because it impedes its proper finalities of democratic solidarity. It affirms that although the reform presents some positive elements "the global form proposed for its approval hinders the consideration of the former". The project presents signs "contrary to values basic to democratic and pluralist procedure signalled by the Church's Social Doctrine."
The statement examines the project's most conflicting points recalling that Catholic must be faithful to conscience with regard to grave sufferings caused by injustice suffered by numerous human beings. The statement says the proposal is unacceptable since it is contrary to inviolable human rights and urges all Catholics and all men and women of good "to pray and reflect on the project and to take a position in the light of principles fundamental for every individual and for society".
The statement concludes "it is fundamental to create the conditions for the people to participation and to decide, not on the basis of prejudice, but in the name of principles; not to defend interests but to defend values rather; not for or against a government but in favour of the country ". (RG) (Agenzia Fides 31/10/2007; righe 24, parole 307)
