The Church cannot be an appendage of any political party, but at the same time, it is neither apolitical nor above politics

The Church cannot be an appendage of any political party, but at the same time, it is neither apolitical nor above politics. It is called to be the voice of conscience, enlightened by the grace of God.

In an ideal state, the Church should be able to say to any party, to any orientation: this is worthy of man and God, and this is not worthy of man and God. Of course, such a word can be spoken from two positions: either from a position of power or from a state of complete helplessness.

And I believe, I am deeply convinced, that the Church should never speak from a position of power. It should not become one of the forces that lead or influence the state, but should remain, if you like, as “helpless” as God is: the One who does not force, but calls, who discovers the beauty and truth of things, but does not impose them.

Like our conscience, which shows us the truth, but does not force us, but leaves us free to follow it or reject it.

I believe that this is how the Church should be: if it becomes one of the institutions that holds power, that can constrain or influence the course of the world, then there will always be the risk of wanting to rule. And from the moment the Church begins to rule over people, it loses what is deeper in its very being: the love of God, the understanding of those whom it is called to save, not to break and reshape by force.”

Metropolitan Anthony of Suroj

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