Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Bogota (Agenzia Fides) – The Bishops' Conference of Colombia has issued a document on the forthcoming presidential elections to be held in May 2010, just two hundred years since Colombia's independence. The document, a copy of which was sent to Fides, remembers this important date for the country, presents the reality that Colombia is living today, and proposes suggestions for a resposnsible vote. Below is a brief presentation of the document.
Two hundred years of independence... On July 20, 1810, the protagonists of those events imagined a homeland based on dignity, freedom, rights, glory, and honor. After 200 years, we yearn for the same ideals. Unfortunately, we are well aware of the reality of our country: violence, unemployment, corruption. This is why we must take back our Colombian legacy, rich in human values: solidarity, strength in the face of difficulties, and family union, to build back the country. We all hurt to see certain politicians in jail or removed for various reasons. But, we are all responsible for our future as a country.
We Bishops are launching an appeal for candidates to think about the common good and to present programs that meet the needs of the people. To voters we say: actively participate in elections and choose who will lead us towards justice, brotherhood, and welfare for all. "We believe that this electoral process is part of the immediate development of Colombia and that the Lord, the Way, Truth, and Life, will lead us along paths of reconciliation and peace."
The document was signed February 12, 2010 by Archbishop Ruben Salazar Gomez, Archbishop of Barranquilla and President of the Colombian Episcopal Conference. (CE) (Agenzia Fides 13/02/2010)
