Church appeals for humility in gov’t-NDF peace talks

The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) called on the government and the communist rebels to take “bold steps” to end the decades-old armed conflict in the country.

At the same time, the bishops asked for humility as a way of overcoming misunderstanding that may crop up.

“Do not be afraid to take the bold steps that alone can bring peace. Intransigence is not strength. Humility is,” said Archbishop Socrates Villegas, CBCP President.

“That one has stood one’s ground is not necessarily the best that can be said of anyone. That he has sown the seeds of peace is to say of a person that he is blessed!” he said.

The bishops made the appeal Tuesday as peace panel from both parties are entering the fifth round of the peace negotiations in the town of Noordwijk in the Netherlands.

While many people do not have high hopes about the peace talks, Villegas said the Church remains optimistic that a positive outcome will be achieved in the negotiations.

Reflecting on the despondent apostles who were calmed by the peace of Christ’s resurrection, Villegas said “Peace ignited that charity in their hearts that made them share everything in common. Peace built the community. Peace can still rebuild our nation!” CBCPNews