(We yield this space to the Unity Statement of the National Council of Churches in the Philippines and the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines due to it timeliness. – Ed.)
THESE are days of struggle, hardships and despair. With Typhoon Odette and Omicron straining the capacities of local communities and families, Christians must unite in solidarity with the most vulnerable among us. The Filipino people are in need of accompaniment and aid in these difficult times. Christ’s light guides our journey.
As a nation, we are also challenged to rise against widespread killings and call for accountability for so-called ‘tokhang’ and ‘anti-insurgency’ operations. The very dignity of life has been violated, as many have been extra-judicially killed. Falsehoods and evil peddled through strong-arm governance have not only limited democratic space, but they have led to corruption, scandals and serious shortcomings in social, health, education and other government services.
Such realities must strengthen our resolve and unite our common concern for the people of this land. Like the Magi of old, we are on a journey towards a better way. The better way is to completely change our old ways and bad habits. Christ is the beacon that summons us to move towards hope. Jesus’ light rises as our guide in a common quest for God’s Shalom, which is Peace based on justice, love, righteousness, freedom, democracy and dignity of life.
With elections only months away, we must all take courage to work together, honoring life and God’s creation. This is a Kairos moment where we can encourage active citizenship among our people and insist upon servant leadership from those who desire our votes in the May 2022 national polls. In Christian unity, our prophetic voice and firm stand for Christ-like conduct and life-affirming principles will enable us to join with other Filipinos in discerning who should lead the country.
In these trying times, we must also guard against the powers of darkness that will seek to defraud, deceive, and destroy God’s intended goodness for the Filipino people. Let us be like ‘city on hill’ that cannot be hidden (Matthew 5:14). As a community that evangelizes through active participation in the democratic process, we can lead by example, reflecting Christ’s love and joining in a journey toward our desired future, where justice, righteousness, and peace will take root and God’s Shalom will flourish among us.
