Bishop Juan Ignacio Liébana of Chascomús in Argentina issued a “message to young people wishing to enter politics” in which he reflected on the characteristics that those aspiring to undertake the task must possess, with particular emphasis on the common good.
The prelate, who is also a member of the Social Pastoral Commission, noted in his letter that politics is “one of the noblest tasks” and is “charity exercised at its highest level.”
“It means administering what belongs to everyone; it means engaging in dialogue, listening, enduring tensions, and always seeking what is just, good, and appropriate while looking out for the most vulnerable, working for the common good, and fostering processes of friendship and social dialogue,” he explained.
He asked that anyone who “enters politics” be a person of integrity, someone “who does not toy with the dreams and hopes of a people.”
He outlined several essential qualities and habits that aspiring politicians should cultivate.
According to the bishop, such a person should be austere, possess a deep spirituality, and be firmly rooted in values and principles.
The bishop advised that politicians should always keep close at hand a list of their campaign promises and deepest aspirations, so they can periodically hold themselves accountable and undertake a sincere examination of conscience.
He emphasized the importance of humility, urging politicians not to become enamored of their own image. Instead, they should know how to “renounce and die” to themselves and to their own petty interests.
They should be quick to ask for forgiveness and know how to step away from their work each day to rest, pray, and reflect, enjoying with sobriety the simple things in life — nature, family, wholesome friendship, and serene prayer.
Liébana added that politicians must never lose their tenderness, their smile, or their simplicity and should make time to play with their own children and visit their elders.
He warned against the allure of luxury, stating that politicians should not be enamored of travel, the “high life,” or extravagant living, as these temptations often lead to the misuse of power and distance them from the realities of ordinary people.
The bishop also stressed the need for good and honest companions, recommending that politicians surround themselves with true friends who are willing to correct them directly and honestly. He advised always having a wise person nearby to consult, listen to, and learn from.
Finally, Liébana called for a clear understanding of one’s innermost motivations for entering politics. If the goal is to make money, become famous, have a good time, or gain recognition, he said, then the person is mistaken about the nature of the vocation.
“The temptations are many; that’s why one must stand firm,” the prelate emphasized. In his view, politics “should be a place for the best, the most virtuous, and not ‘a den of thieves.’”
“We cannot continue to toy with the future of our people, who are already weary and fed up with so much narcissism and mediocrity. This applies equally to every public servant, including us who are consecrated religious,” he pointed out.
“Let us ask God to raise up vocations of public servants who are enthusiastic and passionate, sober and austere, simple and humble — ordinary men and women who are approachable, and filled with tenderness and love for our beloved Argentina. Our homeland deserves it,” he emphasized.
This story was first published by ACI Prensa, the Spanish-language sister service of EWTN News. It has been translated and adapted by EWTN News English.
