Caracas, Venezuela, Jan 14, 2008 / 14:00 pm
At the close of their 89th Ordinary Assembly, the Bishops’ Conference of Venezuela issued a statement calling on political and social leaders to enter a new stage of national reconciliation.
“We bishops feel the best service we can offer the country in these times of antagonism between Venezuelans is to keep us united, to be faithful in proclaiming to the country the Gospel of Reconciliation, to establish bridges of understanding and to contribute values and ethical principles for the building of a culture of peace and of solidarity,” the statement indicated.
The bishops said they hope that “a social and political conscience is awakened in young people, animated by authentic desires of freedom, truth, justice and solidarity.”
“We must seek out the common good of the country, promote dialogue and unity.” “In order to rebuild good relations between sectors and groups that are in conflict with each other, we need to return to a frank, good-natured, trustworthy and prudent [dialogue],” the bishops said.