” “”The cult beloved by God is never a merely private deed, with no consequences on our social relations: it requires the public testimony of one’s faith”. This was written by Benedict XVI, in the post-Synod apostolic exhortation “Sacramentum caritatis”, published today. The Pope lingers on the concept of "Eucharistic consistency" which applies to everyone, but “is imposed with special urgency on those who, for the social or political position they have, must take decisions about fundamental values, such as the respect and defence of human life, from its conception to its natural end, the family based on the marriage of a man and a woman, the freedom of raising one’s children and the promotion of the common good in all its forms”. “These values are non negotiable", insists the Holy Father, according to whom, "Catholic politicians and law-makers, aware of their serious social responsibility, must feel particularly urged in their conscience to submit and support laws inspired by the fundamental values of human nature”. The Bishops too "have a duty to constantly mention such values", because "this is part of their responsibility for the flock that has been entrusted to them” (to be continued).” ” ” “81” ” ” “
