2016-10-12 15:37:00

War on drugs a challenge to Filipino Catholics


The Philippine government's war against illegal drugs has become a challenge to not only church leaders but to "the people of God" who believe in the sacredness of life and in mercy and compassion.

The president's war, which has already killed some 3,500 drug addicts and peddlers, has become a call on the conscience and the integrity of Philippine Catholic Church leaders.

"Thou shall not kill," reads the placards displayed outside some churches. Some Catholics have already decided to act and speak to protect life, practice love and mercy, and to heal the wounded.

The teaching of Jesus to protect life has become a challenge in the midst of the killings. Filipino Catholics are called by their faith to take a stand on the issue of justice and due process and the right of people to live and not be shot on the mere suspicion of being a drug addict.

"Although death is a twin sister born with us on the same day we were born, death by terror and violence, death in the hands of our fellowmen is a sin that cries to heaven for vengeance," read a statement by Archbishop Socrates Villegas, president of the bishops' conference.

Bishop Emeritus Teodoro Bacani, among other Philippine church leaders, appealed to the conscience of authorities to refrain from killing suspected drug users and peddlers.

Taking a stand and speaking out for justice, for what is just and right, for what is true and good is the challenge Filipino Catholics now face. (UCAN)

 

 

 

 








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