Bishop of Aiquile exhorts to be authentic witnesses of the Gospel

Bishop Jorge Herbas Balderrama called on the faithful in the Prelature of Aiquile to live the Gospel with fidelity and defend human dignity against oppression. During his Sunday homily, the bishop reflected on the Church's mission to proclaim the Gospel and the primacy of God.

He noted that God uses people whom the world considers unworthy or powerless to carry out plans for liberation. Drawing on the example of early Christian communities, Balderrama encouraged believers to demonstrate their faith through concrete acts of generosity, love, and hope in Jesus Christ.

Regarding the relationship between faith and civil duty, the bishop addressed the teaching to give to the authorities what belongs to them and to God what belongs to God. He explained that while citizens have obligations to civil authorities and legal systems, the human person possesses an inalienable sacred character as an image of God. Balderrama warned that no political system or earthly power can be treated as absolute, especially if it violates freedom of conscience, fundamental rights, or human dignity.