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The truth and the Cardinal
"Even the original sin of Adam and Eve has not been resolved. You remember the killing of (Abel by) Cain? Up until now, it is unresolved," -- Cardinal Gaudencio Rosales of Manila
The Catholic Church preaches the importance of truth, as stated in the gospel of St. John, that it will set us free. The Lord Jesus Christ, the son of God became man and died for us for the ultimate truth that frees us from original sin. However, Archbishop Cardinal Gaudencio Rosales of Manila calls not to push anymore the reinvestigation of the "Hello Garci" scandal. The cardinal even pushes to the Senate to move on and forget about getting to the bottom the truth.
With these remarks, I am deeply concerned of the role religion play in our society. The Philippines, predominantly a Catholic country, respects and abides with the church heralds. Millions of followers confide to these leaders for opinion and guidance. More than 80 percent of the population being Catholic Christians and Church leaders serve as shepherds that guide the flock to salvation. Now, here is a typical example of the voice of the church with response to government issues. Isn't it that the church should be separate from the state? What could be the agenda behind the Cardinal's controversial statement?
It is clear that the Catholic Church under Archbishop Cardinal Rosales wants to hide the truth about the alleged controversy, and it makes a stand on the political situation neglecting the concern on the tape which allegedly contained the plan to rig the 2004 election results. Rosales appealed not to rekindle issues on the legitimacy of Arroyo, saying it would only create a negative impact on the economy and the country as a whole.
Furthermore the cardinal's call was supported by El Shaddai leader Bro. Mike Velarde. He stated: it should be better for the Senate to just follow the call of many people to just "move forward". He said that with the presidential elections a little over years away, it's better for Senate to focus on its real job for the public's welfare instead.
Does the church teach us to ignore evil doing, unjust or corrupt politics simply because there is nothing we can do about it? I don't understand this appeal, if this message speaks of the Church; will I be condemned for not following or agreeing with the teachings of the cardinal or the church leaders?
In a country where religion is an influential sector, a cultural leaven and a source of strength to the people, religious leaders must take responsibility for their actions. When Filipinos deserve the right to know the truth of the "Hello Garci" controversy, the Church always have a word to say.