AMERICA/COLOMBIA – Bishops’ appeal to priests: impartiality and prudence during election time

Bogotá – In line with the initiatives already launched to promote responsible voting in the run-up to the presidential elections scheduled for May 31, 2026 , the Colombian Episcopal Conference has issued a message to the country’s priests. In it, they urge them to observe the election period “with a profound moral, spiritual, and patriotic awareness, always striving for the common good, justice, truth, and fraternal coexistence.” The statement, signed by the President of the Episcopal Conference, Archbishop Francisco Javier Múnera Correa, the Vice-President, Archbishop Gabriel Ángel Villa Vahos, and the Secretary General, Bishop Germán Medina Acosta, emphasizes that the electoral process represents “a decisive moment for democracy and the future of the country.”
For this reason, priests are asked to “act impartially, prudently, wisely, and with authentic pastoral care, avoiding partisan positions or statements that could deepen divisions.” The bishops invite everyone to join in prayer for peace, reconciliation, and the prudence of voters on the occasion of the upcoming Solemnity of Pentecost on May 24, and to pray especially for Colombia, that the Holy Spirit may guide its citizens in their choice.
In this context, prayer is also important for the election of leaders who are “in accordance with God’s will” and willing to respond to the true needs of the Colombian people. The statement also reminds readers that the country needs everyone’s contribution to “create a different social climate based on proposals and programs that serve the common good, justice, and peaceful coexistence,” while avoiding any form of polarization or political exploitation of the faith. The Bishops’ Conference concludes with a call to promote mutual respect, unity, and ethical commitment among the faithful and places priests under the protection of the Virgin Mary.

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