Violence in Society

 

The recent pandemic that we all experienced showed very clearly that we are all connected with one another whether we like it or not. 

A question heard often: Are we our brother's keeper? Has many varied answers but for people of faith the answer is not difficult to answer. It's Yes. 

This is not something we enjoying having to deal with in life but the physical, mental, emotional and  spiritual  situation of  others will in someway for the good or bad directly or indirectly in a large or small way make itself known to us to us in some form.

The Catholic Times in the  recent editorial gives the readers  some thoughts of the situation in Korea that is not much different from many other areas of the world.

Recently, the fear of indiscriminate violence that threatens the survival of ordinary citizens hovers over the daily life of our society itself. The many  murder notices are not something to be regarded simply as childish pranks by immature teenagers. This is because there is a real possibility of indiscriminate violence, comparable to the weapon riots that occurred recently at two of  the subway stations.

  

Appropriate and stern responses to individual criminal acts are absolutely necessary. However, it is also necessary to deeply reflect on the structural problems of our society that cause the prevalence of such criminal acts. This is often a social pathological phenomenon more than an individual deviation. Therefore, the government, authorities, and all members of our society must make efforts to take care of those around us who are frustrated, socially isolated, and have antisocial sentiment.

 

Above all, an active response from the religious world, including the Catholic Church, is absolutely necessary. This is because religious people are the ones who can show interest and consideration for the poor and the marginalized without any selfish concerns. Religion must practice and testify through example the values of the common good and brotherhood, which are increasingly fading in our society.

 

First of all, the Catholic Church, must pay close attention to whether there are those who are experiencing pain and alienation in our community. To this end, organizations and systems that can take care of the poor must be reorganized. We need to sincerely look back to see if the church and religious activities were not just contained within the  church's fence. The church has the vocation to live in the world and evangelize the world.