The relationship between the Church and politics has never been a simple or easy one. Through the ages different theologies and models of political theory inspired the relationship. At times the Church wanted to have the upper hand over the political establishment while at other times it was exactly the opposite. Simply put one can say that there were emperors (read also prime ministers) who wanted to play the role of bishops; and popes (or bishops) who wanted to play the role of kings or prime ministers.

How should the church behave in this sphere? It cannot remain silent but neither can it boss around. Some bishops believe that their role is guide the faithful by stating principles in a general way while others believe that they should guide Catholics by analysing concrete situations. There are several instances where differing views are consequently put forward.

There were historical circumstances which pushed the Church into adopting political parties. There were other instances where the Church condemned political parties. For fairness sake such decisions have to be judged within the parameters of the politico-socio-cultural environment which existed at the time when the decision was taken.

I have just read an interesting pastoral letter written by Archbishop Socrates Villegas of Lingayen Dagupan, the vice president of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines. Archbishop Villegas put forward his beliefs about what the attitude of Catholics should be in preparation for the political election.

He enunciated a number of principles which are generally accepted but then listed a number of very concrete proposals.

The general principle is that the Church should not endorse political candidates. As Villages rightly states when this happens the Church always ends as a loser.

“The endorsed candidate may win in the votes but the Church never wins with him. In endorsing candidates, the Bride of Christ the Church tarnishes her spiritual mission with the stain of the mundane. The endorsed candidate might win but religion has been reduced to a political party; religion has been used for political gain and our spiritual mission has been compromised. We will be lonesome widows after the elections for marrying partisan politics during the campaign.”

His words are indeed wisely spoken.

This did not lead the Philippine archbishop to close shop and swear to silence. He did the contrary. He advised Catholics not to vote for candidates who do not fulfil anyone of ten conditions he listed.

“ We advise you not to vote for the candidates if: 

1. The candidate cannot declare a categorical and clear NO to divorce, abortion, euthanasia, total birth control and homosexual marriages or D.E.A.T.H issues. Pro choice is anti life. 

2. The candidate has been linked to drug trade, drug possession or drug use or receives money from illegal gambling or has done nothing to stop illegal gambling especially jueteng. Silence is consent. 

3. The candidate has been convicted for a criminal offense. Government officials must be honourable. 

4. The candidate supports black sand mining or tolerates irresponsible quarrying or illegal fish pens. Nature is our mother; if you can rape your own mother, what else will you not do? 

5. The candidate has not done anything until now to uplift the plight of the poor. Performance is better than promises. 

6. The candidate is giving money or distributing goods to voters during the campaign period. Vote buying is prostitution. 

7. The candidate has been involved or linked to terrorism or the use of goons for self-protection within or outside the campaign period. Peace is the only way to peace. 

8. The candidate shows off religiosity only during the campaign period or is antagonistic to church teachings and practices. Corruption and hypocrisy are twins. 

9. The candidate is unfaithful to his or her spouse and children. Corruption begins at home. 

10. The candidate has other members of the immediate family in government positions already. Promoting family welfare and promoting the common good cannot mix.”

Archbishop Villegas proposed quite a tall order. What do you think?

 

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