Mexican Archbishop: The Church cannot cease to announce the Gospel

Mexico City, Mexico, May 12, 2004 / 22:00 pm

As elections approach in Mexico, the Archbishop of  Durango, Hector Gonzalez Martinez, said this week, “Although some think she should stay quiet and silent,” the Church “has the duty to announce the Gospel in all circumstances.”

“Although some don’t like it, the Church cannot remain silent, she has rights and duties and she will continue to fulfill them,” he explained.

The Archbishop called on the candidates of the different political parties to “act with respect and particular faithfulness to the truth,” to ensure voter participation and to work for the true needs of the people.

Addressing those running for state and local government, Archbishop Gonzalez exhorted them to “study the areas which require attention” because “there are many.”

He also mentioned corruption in political life saying the country “belongs to everyone, not just to politicians.”

“We all contribute to the problem of corruption and we all are responsible in some way, because as believers we must bring out faith to all areas of society, and if we have not done so it is a defect on our part. It means our faith, as St. James says, is somewhat slow and inoperative,” he added.