Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
San Salvador (Agenzia Fides) – The Catholic Church in El Salvador has asked the newly elected President of the country, Mauricio Funes, that the newly formed governing body (to take effect June 1) may be one “of unity.” They expressed this wish in a statement issued by the Bishops' Conference, approved by Archbishop Jose Luis Escobar Ala of San Salvador.
The Bishops mention that “national reconciliation and the reunification of the family in El Salvador are themes of utmost importance, that should be a priority in the national agenda” and in the future of the government.
“Our country is very divided,” the text says. “That is why it is necessary that the new President, the Lawmaking Body, and all mayors seek to unify us.” Archbishop Escobar says that the unity of the country is needed “in order to confront the global economic crisis.”
The Bishops also reiterate their call to everyone, “to forge unity in our society, working intensely for a more just, fraternal, and more Christian El Salvador.”
The Bishops also express their gratitude for the fact that elections on March 15 took place amidst an atmosphere of general calm.
Funes, former guerrilla in the “Frente Farabundo Marti” for National Freedom (FMLN), entered the race, in opposition to conservative Rodrigo Avila, from the Republican National Alliance (ARENA). The FMLN candidate won 51.31% of the vote, verses Avila's 48.6%. This is the first time the left-wing party has come to power after 20 years with a right-wing government. (RG) (Agenzia Fides 23/3/2009)
