Colombia's Bishops Call for Peace Ahead of Elections

Colombia's Catholic leaders just wrapped up five days of intense dialogue with a powerful message: it's time to build bridges, not walls.

The 120th Plenary Assembly of Colombian Bishops concluded Friday in Bogotá with a nationwide call for conversion, reconciliation, and active participation in upcoming elections. The bishops are asking citizens to vote "in full freedom and conscience, without corruption" as Colombia prepares for parliamentary elections in March and presidential elections in May.

The timing matters deeply. Colombia has long struggled with social and political divisions, and church leaders see this election season as a crucial opportunity for healing.

The bishops aren't just talking about abstract concepts. They're launching concrete action starting February 15 with the Christian Communication of Goods Campaign, which will support families affected by winter flooding. This annual collection typically begins on the First Sunday of Lent and directs resources to the country's most vulnerable communities.

Their message to different groups shows remarkable specificity. They're asking young people to cultivate friendship with Christ and care for creation. They're encouraging families to serve life without growing weary. They're urging government officials to strengthen dialogue and overcome "radical fragmentation in social and political life."

Business leaders received a direct appeal to promote fair wealth distribution. Media professionals and digital content creators got a reminder to work responsibly during election season.

The bishops had especially strong words for political candidates, urging them to "avoid verbal violence and propose truthful paths" toward genuine national development and peace.

The Ripple Effect

This isn't just religious rhetoric. The European Union is taking Colombia's democratic moment seriously enough to deploy an Election Observation Mission for both elections. EU High Representative Kaja Kallas appointed Esteban González Pons, Vice President of the European Parliament, as Chief Observer.

The bishops also took time to thank Colombia's priests for their service throughout the country, promising continued support for their wellbeing and formation. They recognize that these local religious leaders are on the front lines of community healing every single day.

The assembly concluded by entrusting Colombia to Our Lady of the Rosary of Chiquinquirá, the nation's patroness, symbolizing hope that faith and democracy can work together toward lasting peace.

Colombia's bishops are betting that reconciliation begins with small acts: listening across differences, recognizing each other as family, and showing up to vote with integrity.