The Church in Mexico warned about the “manifestations of death that have been taking place in our country,” which, according to the bishops, “threaten human dignity, dehumanize our coexistence, and leave a deep wound in the con-science of our people.”
In a statement issued on March 5, the Mexican Bishops’ Conference specifically pointed out problems such as “the decri-minalization and promotion of abortion, the scourge of uncon-trolled violence, organized cri-me, and the scourge of drug trafficking, which has turned entire regions into war zones.” However, despite this panorama “marked by shadows of death and despair,” the prelates reminded that “life is a sacred gift, which must be welcomed, protected, defended, and promoted with courage.” In this context, the bishops called for a commitment in favour of human dignity, calling for a Week for Life to be held March 24–28.
The prelates called for the formation of a “conscience illuminated by the truth,” emphasizing that “it is essential to educate the conscience in the light of the Gospel and the teaching of the Church to avoid falling into error and moral confusion.” They also insisted on the need to protect people in their most vulnerable stages, especially the unborn and the elderly, and warned that one should not “be silent in the face of unjust laws that violate human dignity.”
The bishops stressed the urgency of “promoting the family and education in values,” emphasizing that the home is the first space for learning and formation. “It is necessary to strengthen marriage, educate in faith and Christian values so that the new generations grow in a culture of respect and solidarity,” they added. They also urged people to “combat violence with the peace of the Gospel,” affirming that “we cannot resign ourselves to violence. Peace begins in the heart of each person and is built with justice.” The bishops further urged people to accompany the victims of violence, recalling that the faithful are “called to be Samaritans who heal the wounds of those who have suffered violence. Mercy is a concrete witness to Christian hope.”