CBCP calls for individual transformation this Lent

MANILA, Philippines - Church leaders yesterday made a “crucial call to conversion” for the faithful to turn away from “worldly allurements” that would only lead to poverty, graft and corruption, including electoral fraud.

In its Lenten message, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) led by Tandag, Surigao del Sur Bishop Nereo Odchimar said the Holy Week is an opportunity for the faithful to sincerely review their life in the light of the teachings of the Gospel.

He said Holy Week poses a challenge to an individual and collectively to the community to repent and renew their ties with the Lord.

“A transformed society is built of renewed individual citizens,” Odchimar said.

“If we are to examine the very core of our being, we realize that our hearts innately crave for power, are attached to material wealth, content to maintain the status quo, and inclined to worldly allurements and other forms of selfish desires,” he said.

Odchimar pointed out what he called “outward manifestations” of increasing cases of graft and corruption in many institutions, poverty, violation of human rights, vote buying and selling, and other forms of electoral fraud, abuse of natural resources, land grabbing, and all forms of injustices.

But despite these temptations and challenges, Odchimar said the pursuit of good remains a fundamental option for individuals.

“We advocate good governance and seek responsible leaders in view of establishing a just and peaceful society where all may enjoy a fuller life,” Odchimar said.

“But above anything else, we take heed to this crucial call to conversion because God, the Creator and Ultimate Origin of all Good, has drawn us to Himself through His death and resurrection.”