Tagle appeals for sobriety after Duterte’s remarks

June 27, 2018

Manila Archbishop Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle on Wednesday appealed for sobriety following President Rodrigo Duterte's remarks that God and the story of the Creation as stated in the Bible as being" stupid.

In a circular, Tagle said : “Be at peace. Be calm. Don't let things disturb your inner peace. Let us read the situation with the eyes of faith.”

Tagle, who is in Geneva for the UN Conference on Migrants and Refugees. said there have been many questions over the Creation and evolution, God's goodness and evil, God's grace and human freedom, and God's mercy and eternal punishment.

“Questioning God and God's ways is not new. It is as old as humanity and religions. These topics have been raised at various moments of the Church's history,” said Tagle.

The cardinal said people from different beliefs and religions can reach mutual understanding as long as there is mutual respect.

“We, Catholics, should respect non-Catholics and their religions. We also respect those who do not believe in God. All people should strive to respect those who differ from their beliefs,” said Tagle.

Tagle urged people not to be stuck in the discussion over God and Duterte.

“We need to come together and contribute to positive responses according to each one's capability. We cannot address these problems by just blaming someone,” said Tagle. DMS