As a Church, we are in the process of reflection and self-examination on the result of the 2022 national and local elections. We reckon with the lack of depth of our Christian Education in the Church. The teaching ministry has emphasized the centrality of truth of our humanity imaged in the person of Jesus Christ, however, popularity of political figures, espousing modern day idolatry has sidelined the ethical imperative of radical self-emptying love. We regret that we have failed to give credence to our liberating faith that could have raised a matured, analytical and ethically minded electorate.
Category: Pastoral Statements
CHOOSING THE BEST OPTION FOR THE PEOPLE
Having carefully and prayerfully studied all the present options before us, we, the UCCP Council of Bishops collectively resolved to declare our ardent and impassioned endorsement of the Maria Leonor Gerona-Robredo and Francis Pangilinan tandem in the forthcoming May 9, 2022 elections. This is a result of our collective discernment, which may be used for moral guidance of our faith community, especially the undecided. But at the end of the day, the choice is still left with the individual believer on the basis of the Reformation dictum of the individual believer’s freedom of conscience and discernment, guided by the precepts of Scripture, the Word of God.
STATEMENT ON RED-TAGGING OF THE CHURCH AND REV. CATHERINE CHANG
The UCCP condemns in the strongest terms the recent acts of red-tagging and malicious vilification. Acts like these are concrete manifestations to blemish the integrity of our Church Workers, our Mission Co-workers, and our Church in general, as it faithfully carries out the mission of Christ to bring good news of hope and life to the masses. Such blatant contempt of the Church can only be done by those who have always publicly denigrated us. Amidst this challenging situation, the Church cannot remain silent but be watchful and steadfast in its calling to serve the least and the lost. Even as it comes as a threat, it will not dampen our spirit to hold onto truth and righteousness, neither will it prevent us from doing our mission to proclaim Christ’s message of peace and justice.