AMERICA/BOLIVIA - Statement from the Bishops' Conference: “The prophetic mission of the Church can neither be silenced nor separated from its profound Christian roots.”

La Paz (Agenzia Fides) – The Press Office of the Bolivian Bishops' Conference (CEB) has issued a press statement to the public regarding the reactions of government authorities to what Cardinal Julio Terrazas said in his homily on Sunday, November 30, when he affirmed that “drug-trafficking and terrorism go against the dignity of the human person” and “evil events occur because we distance ourselves and we do not listen to the Word of the Lord.” He also mentioned that the country is becoming a “place dominated by drug-traffickers” and called on the authorities of the country to make an effort so that Bolivia does not become “a center for drugs, crime, and evil acts.” The government, however, stated that the Cardinal was not “competent” in speaking of political affairs. As a result, an intense controversy has broken out between Church hierarchy and authorities.
The CEB Press Office says that “when the Catholic Church, through a homily, gives examples of concrete events or situations, she is not entering in politics. Her mission is to reflect on the Word of God, make us reflect on the faith we profess and take out practical conclusions to be applied in our lives.” Moreover, “the prophetic mission of the Church can neither be silenced nor separated from its profound Christian roots.” Thus, in the Cardinal's mentioning of the unfortunate reality of drug-trafficking in the country, he is acting in accord with what has been shown by the official statistics, that in spite of the efforts made, it has not decreased in the nation. Thus, he makes an appeal to everyone, that we may make the necessary efforts to end this real and significant threat to society.”
They also mention that in response to the various acts of recent and past violence, “the Catholic Church has always condemned violence as a means to an end, in any circumstance, as recent statements show.” They conclude by expressing their hope that “these declarations may not be an attempt to sow division in the Church, which is one, founded on the Word of God and communion with all,” and ask that in this season of Advent that has just begun, “we may help one another to build the Kingdom of God today, which is peace, brotherhood, and justice.” (RG) (Agenzia Fides 3/12/2008)