Catholic Politicians Serving the Latin American Peoples

Exchanging experiences, listening to different testimonies, and sharing reflections on Catholic laity who assume political responsibilities in the various Latin American countries are the primary objectives of the “Encounter with Catholics with political responsibility in the service of the Latin American peoples—Dialogue between politicians and pastors,” which begins today in Bogota, at the seat of the Colombian Bishops’ Conference.

The meeting, organized by the Latin American Episcopal Council (CELAM) and the Pontifical Commission for Latin America (CAL), will continue until Sunday, 3 December. The other goals include putting the Church—and especially her pastors—in a position conducive to listening to the different situations and needs that Catholics with political responsibilities experience and feel today, and to find the best ways to accompany and support them in their efforts. Bearing in mind the distinction between the ecclesial and the political communities the meeting wants to encourage greater participation of lay people engaged in politics in the Church’s communion and the mission while encouraging the Christian community and its shepherds to pay more attention to the needs of Catholics who have political responsibilities.

The work of the Meeting will be moderated by Cardinal Marc Ouellet (CAL President), Cardinal Ruben Salazar (Archbishop of Bogotá) and Prof. Guzman Carriquiry (Secretary in charge of the Vice Presidency of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America). Politicians from Mexico, Argentina, Guatemala, and Peru will participate. The work will begin with a video message from Pope Francis.