Argentina bishops warn legal reforms could harm families

The bishops of Argentina have warned that proposed changes to the country's Civil Code would have drastic consequences for the protection of the family and human life.

Bishop Jose Maria Arancedo, president of the Argentinean bishops' conference, told local newpaper El Litoral on July 4 that while some aspects of the reform are acceptable, others “imply a change of values and life.” 

The new Civil Code proposed by the Argentinean government would allow fast-track divorce, abortion, in vitro fertilization and same-sex “marriage.”

“The proposed reform of the Civil Code as a benchmark regulating man’s life and his relationships in society is a issue that involves all of us. 

We cannot remain indifferent or be mere spectators about decisions that involve us and require wide federal participation and reflection.  Issues of so much transcendence must not be rushed,”

Bishop Arancedo said the new Code must maintain “the richness of the traditions and legal institutions as the principals and values that make up our life and identity.”

“We are willing to discuss, debate and explain our reasons, but to me politicians and the media are constantly in flux.  I think they need to stop and reflect on the issues,” he said.

For this reason, Argentineans must get involved in the debate because it will affect the day-to-day life of society, he added.