[WATCH] Social justice main victim of corruption and lies, Archbishop says

When the poison of corruption and lies permeates society, people’s dignity is tarnished – as is the value of inter-personal relationships – leading to social conflict replacing social justice, Archbishop Charles J Scicluna said today.

Scicluna, who was addressing a conference on social justice organised by the Social Assistance Secretariat of Catholic Action Malta, said that politics should be the art of love that looks after the common good because politics that works favour of a few was actually counter-political.

“Justice means that when people take what is theirs by right, they should also accept what they deserve,” he said. “Social justice demands that whoever governs safeguard the principles of truth and the common good.”

Scicluna said that government should adopt the same standards with regards to the environment, and should reflect then implement measures that reflect the sentiment whereby every man should promote an environment that raises the standard of living even for his descendants.

The archbishop said that he was frequently asked how the Church could contribute to a fair society.

“Definitely by being a vocal witness of the words of the Gospel,” he said. “In the synagogue in Nazaret, Jesus himself called for a year of a grace that freed the beaten down and brought light to the blind, becoming a reference for true freedom and social justice.”

Scicluna said that the prophets had also made it clear that abstinence should not be some sadistic practice, but more of a reminder to pay workers on time, to help the weak and to serve out justice equally – all major principles governing social justice.

He said he hoped Catholics in Malta would continue working towards a level of social justice that would leave local politicians able to resist any temptation with regards to favouritism and clientelism, and able to work for the common good.