Statement Regarding a Letter of Support for Church in Bolivia, June 16, 1981

Archbishop Roach Supports Bolivia
United States Catholic Conference

Following is the text of his letter to Archbishop Rodriguez:

For almost a year now, the Church in Bolivia has experienced one of the most turbulent periods of its recent history. It has been a time of great conflict and suffering, but also a time in which the Church of Bolivia has repeatedly and courageously manifested its fidelity to the Gospel.

As the Holy Father himself said to you last November, your actions and statements on behalf of human dignity and the freedom of the Gospel constitute "a dimension of the very magisterium which the Church cannot forego, an indivisible part of its service to God and to Humankind."

We have followed these recent developments with care and have been edified by the several forthright declarations of the Episcopal Conference especially the joint pastoral letter of last September, "Dignidad y Libertad." Your clear pastoral option for the poor and for the defense of human rights stands as an edifying example for all of us.

With this letter we wish to reaffirm our previous expressions of fraternal support, and assure you that the Church of Bolivia and the whole people of your country have a special place in our prayers.

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