wfn.org | Taiwans Catholics to Confer on Presidential Politics

[Taiwan Church News <pctpress@ms1.hinet.net>]

Taiwan Church News 2712, 9 through 15 February 2004
Reported by Lin Yi-ying. Translated and Rewritten by David Alexander

How can one view Taiwans upcoming presidential elections from the 
standpoint of the gospel? The Regional Associations of Major Religious 
Superiors of Men and of Women in Taiwan plan to hold a seminar on 
February 21st at 5 PM in Taipei to air many sides of the question. They 
hope to show the breadth of Catholic concern for the issue of the election.

In accordance with canon law, the Roman Catholic Church has a 
responsibility to examine all things in the light of the Gospel to 
discern the signs of the times. The Church must also clearly proclaim 
the duty of every citizen to strive for the public good. Therefore, 
Taiwans Roman Catholic Church sees voting for president not just as 
every citizens right and privilege but as the duty of individual 
Christians to care for society and participate in political life.

The particular ways that churches manifest concern for Taiwans 
political processes is not considered pulpit talk, because political 
positions incite disputes that damage the fellowship. But the 
Associations of Major Religious Superiors cite Catholic unity on the 
questions of justice and peace as foundational for people of faith. They 
hope that gospel viewpoints and theological reflections can be shared 
at the seminar in a way that will lead the Church to care for Taiwans 
political and social needs bringing about gradual transformation of 
ethnic divisions and factionalism. Their ideal is peaceful dialogue and 
the end of enmity.

For More Information:
Regional Associations of Major Religious Superiors of Men and Women in 
Taiwan amrsmw@seed.net.tw
Taiwan Church News is published weekly in Taiwan's local languages.
Visit our web site: www.pctpress.com.tw