Cardinal Fernando Chomali stated that Christians in the 21st century will either be martyrs or not be Christians. The statement was made during a seminar on the role of faith in public life. The seminar, titled “And in Everything Charity,” commemorated the centenary of Pope Pius XI’s encyclical Quas Primas. The event was organized by various organizations, including the Catholic University of Chile's law department.
4 months ago
Cardinal Fernando Chomali, the Archbishop of Santiago and Primate of Chile, recently declared that the "Christian of the 21st century will either be a martyr or will not be a Christian" 1 3. This statement was made during his presentation at the "And in Everything Charity" seminar, which commemorated the centenary of Pope Pius XI’s encyclical Quas Primas 1 3.
Cardinal Chomali emphasized that this call to "martyrdom" does not imply seeking persecution, but rather living a radical Christian life characterized by obedience to God above all else 1 3. He noted that contemporary society is "glutted with everything... but full of nothing," underscoring a profound spiritual emptiness 1 3. The Cardinal stressed the need for "witnesses" over "teachers," advocating for Christians who demonstrate their faith through their lives and actions, not merely through ideas or discourse 1 3.
The Archbishop of Santiago highlighted the indispensable role of faith in social transformation, asserting that "every human project without grace ends in frustration" 1 3. He cautioned against two temptations: spiritualizing everything and retreating into insular groups, emphasizing that the Church must maintain a missionary attitude and be outwardly focused 1 3. According to Cardinal Chomali, what truly attracts people is not rhetoric, but concrete actions 1.
Cardinal Chomali elaborated that charity must be the very "soul of Christian politics," distinguishing it from mere cordiality or philanthropy 1 3. He affirmed that "evangelizing is by nature a political act" because its ultimate aim is the common good 1 3. The cardinal concluded that the most valuable contribution Christians can offer society is the proclamation of Christ, as it is through Him that human dignity is understood and hope can be truly lived 1 3.
What is the Church's teaching on Christian witness?
The Church's teaching on Christian witness emphasizes that it is an essential aspect of living out one's faith and participating in the evangelizing mission of the Church . Christian witness is not merely about verbal proclamation but encompasses the entirety of a believer's life, lived in conformity with the Gospel .
Christian witness is fundamentally a testimony to God's saving presence and action in the world, particularly through Jesus Christ. It is rooted in the experience of conversion and a personal encounter with Christ, which then impels believers to share this experience with others. The Catechism of the Catholic Church highlights that "witness is the principal means of evangelization". This witness is given through:
The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in enabling Christian witness. It is through the power of the Holy Spirit that believers are empowered to speak boldly, live virtuously, and endure trials for the sake of the Gospel. The Spirit guides, strengthens, and inspires Christians in their mission to evangelize.
Every baptized Christian is called to be a witness to Christ in their daily lives, in their families, workplaces, and communities . This call is not reserved for a select few but is an integral part of the Christian vocation. The Church teaches that evangelization, which includes witness, is a "fundamental duty of the People of God". This means that all members of the Church, both clergy and laity, are called to participate in this mission.
In the contemporary world, Christian witness is particularly vital. Pope Paul VI, in Evangelii Nuntiandi, emphasized that "modern man listens more willingly to witnesses than to teachers, and if he does listen to teachers, it is because they are witnesses". This highlights the importance of authenticity and credibility in Christian living. The Church encourages believers to engage with the world, bringing the light of Christ to all areas of human activity, including social, political, and cultural spheres.
In summary, the Church's teaching on Christian witness is comprehensive, encompassing a life lived in conformity with the Gospel, verbal proclamation, sacramental participation, and the ultimate sacrifice of martyrdom, all empowered by the Holy Spirit and incumbent upon every baptized person .