From April 9 to 12, representatives of the pastoral work of the Catholic Church in Colombia met under the auspices of the National Secretariat of Social Pastoral Cáritas Colombiana. This meeting brought together the leaders of the 78 jurisdictions in the country with the purpose of reflecting and discerning the problems present in the territories, following the methodology of "see, judge and act".

The directors of the jurisdictions play a crucial role as a direct link in addressing humanitarian crises, armed conflicts and environmental problems that affect communities in the midst of displacement, threats and other complex realities. Monsignor Barreto, President of the Episcopal Commission for Social Pastoral, emphasized that the structural problems have not been overcome over the years and require continuous and sustained attention.

At the opening of the event, Father Rafael Castillo Torres of the National Secretariat of Social Pastoral, shared a message with the diocesan directors, expressing the will to build a merciful and supportive Church in collaboration with the social pastoral of each jurisdiction. This meeting represents an invaluable opportunity to advance that shared vision.

The meeting addressed various crucial issues for peace and reconciliation in Colombia. One of the main challenges is to accompany the socio-legal dialogues in territories such as Buenaventura, Medellín and Cali, where the Church plays a fundamental role in the negotiation and accompaniment process. The importance of implementing the peace agreements to support the peasantry and promote productive processes that contribute to overcoming poverty and inequality in the country was highlighted.

For more information visit the Cáritas Colombia page

Photography: Cáritas Colombia