Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Asuncion (Agenzia Fides) – Yesterday, March 2, the Bishops' Conference of Paraguay (CEP) began its 174th Plenary Assembly, which will last until March 6.
As is customary, the Bishops dedicate special time to analyzing the state of the nation on a political and ecclesial level. Each Bishop presented the main concerns of his diocese, says Monsignor Adalberto Martinez, Secretary General of the CEP, in resuming the points treated in the first session, in a press conference.
The situation of the rural populations, with the need for integral agricultural policies that take all those concerned into consideration, continues to be a problem on a national level. They also discussed the need for a more equal justice for all Paraguayans and the need to fight corruption. The Bishops also showed their desire to make the Church's position known in the debate over the legalization of marijuana. No social problem is exempt from the evangelization effort, especially when they are damaging to the human person and the common good. Thus, the pastors hope that in this Lent the people will remain steadfast in their faith and hope, amidst the many problems, promoting communion and solidarity as ways to overcome them. This analysis will continue in the coming sessions, in light of the elaboration of a common declaration at the end of the Assembly.
Secondly, during this Assembly, the Bishops will also address the Continental Mission to take place in the country. Various proposals have been made on how best to carry out the Mission. The Bishops hope to begin the permanent mission, the people and their pastors together, in order to strengthn communion in pastoral ministry through participation and commitment on a community level. (RG) (Agenzia Fides 3/3/2009)
