Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Bogota (Agenzia Fides) – The Colombian Bishops' Conference has dedicated part of its website to the unfolding of the LXXXIX Plenary Assembly of Bishops, which is being held in Bogota (July 5-9). As the country is celebrating its Bicentennial of Independence, the theme of the Assembly is: "The Church's Work of Evangelization in Building Up Society in the Context of the 200th Anniversary of Independence."
The celebration of the Bicentennial of Independence consists in a series of activities commemorating the 200th anniversary of the liberation of the country from Spanish rule, an event that is shared by other countries in South America. In Colombia, not only the government, but also the Catholic Church and other institutions are joining in this important event.
The Bishops of Colombia, in their annual meeting that is about to end, wanted to contribute to this event with a reflection and a program of activities involving the whole Catholic community. According to the note sent to Fides, poverty and employment were the first topics covered by the Bishops.
"The poverty and misery of half of our fellow citizens can no longer be regarded simply as an economic fact. Behind it, one discovers the violation of fundamental human rights and, therefore, a social conflict which must be addressed with courage and boldness by governors and by the entire Colombian society," said Archbishop Ruben Salazar Gomez, President of the Bishops' Conference of Colombia, in his speech. He then added, "the latest official figures show that unemployment, as of May 2010, reached 12 percent in Colombia, an equivalent of 2.6 million people unemployed. Also, it is estimated that 52.7 percent of people who work have a precarious work."
The full speech of Archbishop Ruben Salazar Gomez can be heard on this new section on the website of the Bishops' Conference. One can also listen to the homily of Archbishop Aldo Cavalli, Apostolic Nuncio in Colombia, delivered at the opening Mass of the Assembly. One can also hear and download all the speeches. This section also has several videos of speeches, interviews, and a photo gallery. (CE) (Agenzia Fides 07/08/2010)
