Before the international image of our Lady of Fatima in a farewell Mass, Cebu Archbishop Ricardo Cadinal Vidal said that if and when the Reproductive Health (RH) Bill becomes a law, he will not remain silent opposing it “even if it means dragging me to jail”.
The rite participated in by an estimated 10,000 devotees when asked if they are willing to be incarcerated in saying no to the "RH Law” most answered a resounding affirmative.
I am not sure where the Cardinal gets his idea that a law cannot be criticized. I know that he was one of those who fought the evil of Martial Law and fascist dictatorship.
This country is predominantly Catholic and if I were in the government, there is a good reason for me to be apprehensive if continuous protests mar the streets. That show of defiance may not be sanctioned by the Church. Individual protesters and organizations can clog the streets on their own volition. Expected too are the factions that support the law (if enacted).
After the assassination of Ninoy Aquino, demonstrations and protests took their daily pace that culminated in a People’s Power. I am not saying that Mr. Aquino will be forced by the people to leave his office but frequent demonstrations and show of defiance weakens the government and our institutions.
If people are really serious that they are willing to go to jail in accordance with their belief and conscience, I am not a prophet or a seer but the global family of nations of any religious persuasion will recognize the jailed as heroes. That is regardless whether what they believe is correct or not. The point is that they have the courage and to suffer if necessary to say NO to something against their conscience.
Who can forget the picture of one brave soul facing a tank in Tiananmen Square stopping it? Some said that he is stupid or crazy but others see him as a hero that despite his being alone, he was there fighting for freedom.
Priests, nuns, bishops, archbishops, a cardinal, defenders of life and the integrity of the family, their Muslim ally against artificial contraception included could be in jail but the prison cell is not soundproof. Their voices will be heard even louder.
Pro and anti RH Bill opinions are here to stay that fire up emotions. I just don’t like that time when there is a clash of the titans: government vs. the Church. It is easy to weigh down who the victor is when a clash involves weapons but when the “war” is about principles those on the side of truth cannot be vanquished for truth sets us free. -30-
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Photo Courtesy: Benshan Photoworks
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