Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Asuncion (Agenzia Fides) – Just days before the swearing-in of President Fernando Lugo, the Bishops of Paraguay sent a message to the new government, reminding them of the non-negotiable points in political life, which have been enumerated by the Holy Father.
In their message, the Bishops affirm that “from the dawn of the Nation, the Catholic Church has been present in national life.” This past April 20, the Bishops say, the people’s desire for change was manifest in their choice for a new era in national life. “There is no doubting the importance of making these expectations a reality, eliminating all errors and negative practices from political life and establishing concrete means that place the common good above personal, family, or partisan interests.” However, in this case, there is “a main player in the political change. Mr. Fernando Lugo, who had once been a member of this Episcopal Conference, no longer in it upon personal preference and dispensed from his clerical state by Pope Benedict XVI, is now President of the Republic of Paraguay.” “It seems unnecessary to make any further clarification of the fact that the Catholic Church is not associated with the new government,” the Bishops said, recalling the fact that “both the Church and State are institutions that are independent and autonomous. Each one works in favor of the people while maintaining cordial and respectful relations. They work together to promote the welfare of all men that live on our soil.”
In this unique situation, “the Bishops’ Conference of Paraguay reiterates its desire to support all policies that work towards the common good, that promote the dignity and the rights of every person, and that seek an integral development of the people and communities.” In addition, “it will maintain the attitude of constructive criticism, which it has held up until now, in regards to the government’s activities and will continue making its voice heard in both acclamation and critique.”
Likewise, the Prelates added that “although the state is non-denominational, it should respect religious freedom, freedom of worship and of conscience” and “should keep in mind the innate values of the human person, especially respect for life from conception until natural death.” They also reaffirmed their defense of the traditional family, “which is founded on marriage between a man and a woman, the promotion of the poor, the rural families, and the indigenous peoples, as well as that of the elderly, sick, and abandoned.” (RG) (Agenzia Fides 3/9/2008)
