LAST Thursday, The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) made a statement that it cannot impose its stance against divorce but remained firm that the Philippines should not join the “bandwagon” of legally dissolving marriages.
Personally, I am against divorce and will always be against it. Not just because I want to echo the church’s teachings but more because I believe in marriage, its sanctity, and its beauty. However, as a practicing Christian and as a service-oriented individual, I also believe in respecting what others believe and think. Thus, I am supporting what the CBCP is voicing out.
Proposition, never imposition
In the issue of the legalization of divorce in the Philippines, the Catholic Church stands as a significant voice, advocating for the sanctity of marriage. However, it’s crucial to clarify that the Church’s role is to propose its perspective to the state, not to impose its beliefs on the entire population. This stance respects the diversity of beliefs and upholds the constitutional principle of separating church and state.
Catholic doctrine views marriage as a sacred, indissoluble union. This belief is rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ and has been a cornerstone of Catholic theology for centuries. The Church advocates for the preservation of marriage and sees divorce as contradictory to this fundamental belief. Therefore, it naturally expresses concern over any legislative move to legalize divorce.
The distinction between proposing and imposing is essential. The Catholic Church proposes its views to the state, urging lawmakers to consider divorce’s moral and social implications. This proposal is based on the Church’s pastoral mission to guide the faithful and contribute to societal well-being.
However, proposing does not mean imposing. The Church acknowledges that it operates within a pluralistic society where multiple beliefs and opinions coexist. It respects the rights of individuals who do not share its views and recognizes that the state’s role is to serve the common good of all its citizens, regardless of their religious affiliations.
Respecting the Separation of Church and State
The principle of the separation of church and state is enshrined in the Philippine Constitution. This separation ensures that no single religious group can dictate state policies and that the state remains neutral in matters of religion. The Catholic Church supports this principle, understanding that it protects the rights of all citizens to freedom of belief and conscience.
By merely proposing its stance, the Church engages in a dialogue with the state and society, contributing its moral perspective without overstepping its bounds. This approach fosters a respectful and democratic process where all voices can be heard.
In a democratic society, the decision to legalize divorce should be based on a comprehensive consideration of various perspectives, including those of religious groups, secular organizations, and the general public. The Catholic Church, by proposing rather than imposing its views, participates in this democratic process while upholding the values of mutual respect and freedom of conscience.
A Respectful Opposition
The Catholic Church’s opposition to the legalization of divorce in the Philippines is a reflection of its deep-seated beliefs about the sanctity of marriage. However, it is committed to proposing its views to the state in a manner that respects the diversity of opinions and the separation of church and state. This balanced approach ensures that the Church can fulfill its pastoral mission while contributing positively to a pluralistic and democratic society.
Matthew 19: 6 — So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore, what God has joined together, let no one separate.”
