AMERICA/PERU - The Bishop of Puno urges political authorities to deal with social problems

Lima (Agenzia Fides) – The Bishop of Puno Mgr.Jorge Pedro Carrion Pavlic, during the Eucharistic celebration for the 190th anniversary of the independence of Peru stressed that no representative of the central government visited the region of Puno during the tragic social events that caused the death of several people. The area was the protagonist of several demonstrations, sometimes violent, caused by socio-environmental and political problems.
A note sent to Fides by Radio Onda Azul in Puno notes that the Bishop criticized the inability of authorities to solve social conflicts. "We had a crowd of people without any authority", recalled Mgr. Jorge Carrion after reflecting on the parable of the Good Shepherd who looks after his flock.
After Mass, several politicians and military officials commented Mgr, Jorge Carrion’s homily, considering it an appeal to reflection.
The Deputy Regional President of Puno, Saul Bermejo Paredes said "The Bishop was very direct, one has tolisten to what he said", while the Mayor of Puno Luis Butron Castillo said that the Bishop's homily is an invitation to dialogue and to union. (CE) (Agenzia Fides 07/28/2011)