Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Lima (Fides Service) - Bishop Hugo Garaycoa Hawkins of Tacna and Moquegua, President of the Peruvian Bishops’ Conference, together with Bishop Juan José Larrañeta Olleta, OP, Bishop of the Apostolic Vicariate of Puerto Maldonado and secretary general of the Bishops’ conference, issued a recent statement on the difficult situation in Peru today. The year 2004 has been a year of crisis of authority and junta which threatens the power of the state and the credibility of the authorities. This has created an atmosphere of insecurity and lack of respect for human life. These facts- the Bishop said- “are signs of a limping social system”. Faced with this little reassuring panorama the Bishops encouraged the people of Peru not to lose heart despite the difficult situation. Indeed they urge them to work to reinforce channels of dialogue and to examine also personal behaviour to improve individual participation in society, working with honesty, consistency and authenticity. The Bishops also ask people to pray that the simplicity and transparency of the Infant Jesus may reach government and authorities. (R.Z.) (Agenzia Fides 21/12/2004, righe 15, parole 20
209)
