MANILA Archbishop Cardinal Jose Advincula urged priests on Friday, June 2, 2023, to speak out against all forms of injustice and evil, saying it is part of their mandate as shepherds of the flock.
In a report by CBCP News, Advincula told all priests that they should not become meek and silent when faced with injustices and oppression in the society.
“Do not be afraid to speak, especially in the face of oppression, injustice, violence, and evil,” Advincula said.
“A silent shepherd, when he is expected to speak, is a form of negligence,” he added.
The Cardinal said this is because being silent in order to "play safe" may result in their flock becoming lost.
“When the sheep do not hear the voice of their shepherd, they may easily follow false shepherds, who will only do them harm,” said Advincula.
He assured that the flock will always listen to their shepherds as they associate them with God.
“The flock will recognize our voices as their shepherds only if we speak the words of God to them,” said Advincula.
In the past, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) has had "vigilant collaboration" with the National Government.
By this, the CBCP has said that it will continue to work with the government for the benefit of the people.
The CBCP said this also means that it is prepared to speak out, to teach, to admonish, and to correct the administration when deemed necessary. (HDT/SunStar Philippines)