The Bishops of Malawi warn clergy against political biases ahead of elections, urging citizens to tackle societal issues like corruption and poverty. They emphasize collective responsibility and faith in God to inspire change and improve Malawi’s future.
The Catholic Bishops of Malawi have issued a stern warning to their priests ahead of the parliamentary elections set for September 16. In their Lenten pastoral letter titled “Who will roll away the stone for us?” they prohibit any political favoritism by clergy, emphasizing that such actions using church resources will be unacceptable.
The Bishops encourage Malawians to take charge of their circumstances, likening their struggles to the Stone of the Holy Sepulchre. They identify multiple societal issues, such as corruption, political negligence, the rising cost of living, food insecurity, and unemployment, stressing the importance of awareness and unity to confront these challenges.
The bishops highlight the need for citizens, particularly the marginalized, to reflect on their socio-economic status. They assert that no meaningful change can occur unless individuals collectively denounce corruption and advocate for their rights against oppressive structures. The bishops also underscore the detrimental activities that result in communal harm, including the targeting of individuals accused of witchcraft, urging all leaders to address such severe injustices.
In conclusion, the letter appeals for faith in God and collective action to overcome challenges such as poverty and division. The bishops call upon citizens to elect capable leaders and take accountability for their actions in building a prosperous Malawi for future generations.
The pastoral letter from the Bishops of Malawi serves as an urgent call to arms for citizens to address their socio-economic challenges actively. The discouragement of clergy involvement in politics, the recognition of societal obstacles, and the need for accountability are central to the message. Ultimately, faith and collective effort are deemed essential in combating poverty and fostering a brighter future for the nation.
Original Source: www.fides.org
