Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Celaya (Agenzia Fides) - Bishop Lázaro Pérez Jiménez of the diocese of Celaya (Mexico), addressed a Letter to his people with regard to a debate in the country about euthanasia since the Federal District Legislative Assembly announced that a new law to legalise euthanasia was to be drafted. Not long ago a law to allow abortion up to the 12th week of pregnancy was passed. "Our legislators decided that life, a gift of God, starts at the 12 week of pregnancy", the Bishop writes expressing indignation that "an institution which should pass laws for the common good, should dare to legalise a crime, infanticide, contrary to natural law and an offence against God the Lord of life".
With this move to introduce euthanasia, directly assisted death, "our legislators show they are unwilling to tackle the real difficulties facing the people, integral solutions to help the poor live a more dignified life " the Bishop writes and underlines that insecurity and lack of basic services in the Federal District are emergencies which need attention because they could lead to instability and violence.
The Bishop says it is his duty and the duty of every bishop to lead the Catholic people nourishing them with the truth of the Gospel, whose central message is freedom from all slavery, the dignity of the human person and fundamental rights starting with the right to life from conception to natural death. "If I were to remain silent I would fail in the mission entrusted to me by grace".
"Catholics who live their faith can never be in favour of euthanasia or vote for its legalisation in our country. Catholics will always stand for the culture of life" the Bishop concluded. (RG) (Agenzia Fides 2/7/2007; righe 26, parole 368)
