Bishop calls for reconciliation after ‘divisive election’
DUMAGUETE Bishop Julito Cortes called “families torn by politics” brought by the recent local and national elections to move on towards reconciliation.
Cortes made the call two days after the elections when the partial and unofficial results showed that Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. was leading by a very wide margin as against his closest political rival, Leni Lobredo.
“For all of us who went through this divisive election, we should forgive each other. Let us return to nurturing our relationships with one another as family, torn because of politics,” Cortes said in a video message.
The bishop stressed that “change is not just external but also internal in each of us and our homes.”
As he assured the Church’s cooperation with the government for the welfare of the public, he said the diocese will also monitor the campaign promises of the newly-elected leaders.
Cortes also congratulated victors, reminding them to always seek the grace of knowledge to see the “will of God for His people.”
“The hand of God can be seen in history. God is the one who gave them the authority. God calls them to serve, especially those weak and poor in our society,” he said
For those who did not win, the prelate enjoined them not to lose hope.
“Losing does not mean complete failure but an opportunity for the will of God for you to happen. When a window closes, another opens. Search for God’s purpose for you through faith and in obedience to the Holy Spirit,” he added.
When Cortes made the statement most of the election winners have been proclaimed in Negros Oriental and Siqujor provinces. By Lee Ann Ducusin
