Argentinean bishop says families worldwide are lacking in love

Buenos Aires, Argentina, Jul 3, 2006 / 22:00 pm

Bishop Joaquin Piña of Puerto Iguazu, Argentina, said this week the World Meeting of Families in Valencia will shed light on the true state of the family not only in Spain or Argentina, but also in different parts of the world.

“The most serious thing is this individualistic culture that has invaded us, where everything that has to do with effort and sacrifice is completely absent.  And thus, that which is most essential for family cohesion is missing: true love,” Bishop Piña stated.

The bishop noted that many parents are incapable of educating their children or getting involved in their affairs, which is one of the factors that have led to the crisis of the family.

The bishop also pointed to an economic independence which sometimes exists between the parents as well as between the children and the parents as another factor contributing to the crisis. 

“If there is no warmth in the home,” he added, “the home perishes and love is extinguished.”

“At this World Congress we will hear that love has to be something more. That it is the only foundation and support of the family,” Bishop Iguazu maintained.  “We must pray to God that his flame is never extinguished.  And if it has gone out, that it may be lit again,” he said in conclusion.