Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Buenos Aires (Agenzia Fides) - At the end of their 93rd plenary assembly the Argentinean Catholic Bishops issued a statement on the citizens social duties and in view of elections this year underlining the necessity to "be more aware of our common calling to promote the common good, and be not just inhabitants but citizens who participate in the country's social and political life". In view of general elections this year the Bishops urge the people to "seriously reflect on our social behaviour: looking at our duties and our rights, as ordinary citizens or as state workers or leaders called to exercise the function for which they are chosen".
Among the more important issues the Bishops mention: human life "the first of all rights which we must respect"; the family, founded on marriage of a man and a woman, and family rights which must be strengthened; and for young people education to love and social commitment in the real sense"; the common good must come first, "its primacy sustains and fortifies the power of the state"; give priority to measures which guarantee and accelerate the inclusion of all citizens; federalism "with more institutional power for the Province, and the necessary and just autonomy from the central authorities "; social policies to improve society “dialogue to reach agreements for a common project of nation".
The Bishops conclude "it is our profound desire that our nation's bi-centenary celebrations from 2010 to 2016, will find us stronger in common spirit, and a reconciled Argentina of true peace and social friendship". (RG) (Agenzia Fides 2/5/2007 righe 24 parole 245)
