Brazilian president criticizes Catholic Church

Devair Araújo da Fonseca, the bishop of Piracicaba, criticized Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva for suggesting the Catholic Church must change its practices to grow. During a September 16 meeting at the Planalto Palace in Brasília, President Lula da Silva told members of the Evangelical Front for the Rule of Law that the Church would face difficulties unless it ends priestly celibacy and allows women to serve as priests and bishops.

The president suggested that the ability of women to hold any position they desire has contributed to the growth of evangelical churches in Brazil. Catholic populations in the country have decreased from approximately 90% in 1970 to about 57% today.

In a video posted on September 19, Bishop Araújo da Fonseca responded to these remarks during a homily in Santa Bárbara d'Oeste. He stated that politicians should focus on governing the country rather than telling the Church how to operate, adding that they are doing a poor job of managing the nation. The bishop urged people to be attentive during the upcoming election, with the first round scheduled for October 4.