Democracy in Brazil needs work, says bishop

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Oct 5, 2004 / 22:00 pm

Bishop Sinesio Bohn of Santa Cruz do Sul, Brazil, has issued a pastoral letter entitled, “The Church and Democracy,” in which he recalls that democracy “is not exempt from faults” and that work should be done to improve it.

“If democracy appears to be the best system for achieving good for all, it is not exempt from faults.  The reason is the fragileness itself of human nature.  Because of this, vice and corruption are possible even in elections,” recalled the bishop, adding that “our democracy should always be getting more perfect, for the dignity and good of all Brazilians.”

He also pointed out that “since it is not easy to promote the common good in a pluralist society, different political parties with their plans and proposals exist.  When voting, one decides which is the best plan for the community and which people are most apt for carrying out those plans.  For this reason, voting is so important for the future of the country and of communities.”

While Bishop Bohn stated that “the Church is not affiliated with any political party and leaves Catholics free to vote according to their convictions and conscience,” he clarified that the political community and the Church, “both institutions at the service of citizens,” seek to work to together and to cooperate.

“Ideally democratic participation should translate into social participation, so that the great inequality among citizens, violence, injustice, impunity and so many other vices can be overcome,” he added.

Lastly, the bishop stated that “just as people are all called to the same vocation by God, all citizens are called to cooperate in the building of a better world, where peace, justice, respect, dignity and freedom reign.”