Pope Francis: Freedom of
conscience must be respected always and everywhere
 |
| Portugese diplomat Aristides de Souda Mendes |
Marking the Day of Conscience, inspired by the witness of
Portuguese diplomat Aristides de Sousa Mendes, Pope Francis appeals that
freedom of conscience be respected always and everywhere.
By Vatican News
During his General Audience on Wednesday, Pope Francis
recalled that June 17 marks the "Day of Conscience".
The day was inspired by the testimony of Portuguese diplomat
Aristides de Sousa Mendes, who, eighty years ago, decided to follow his
conscience, and in doing so, saved the lives of thousands of Jews and many
others who were being persecuted.
In his words on Wednesday, the Pope appealed that “freedom
of conscience always and everywhere be respected”. “May every Christian”,
he said, “give an example of the consistency of an upright conscience
enlightened by the Word of God.”
Act of Conscience
Aristides de Sousa Mendes’s act of conscience was deeply
embedded in his Catholic faith. It led him to disregard the direct orders of
his government to help those in need.
During the Second World War, de Sousa Mendes, despite
knowing the consequences he would face for his actions, issued visas to all
refugees regardless of nationality, race, religion, or political
opinions.
"I could not have acted otherwise"
This sense of humanity and courage led to his ostracization
from the world in which he had lived. He was unable to continue his job as a
diplomat and was forbidden from earning a living in order to support his
family. His children, too, were prevented from finding gainful employment.
He spent the rest of his life trying to clear his name but
was ignored by the Portuguese political regime at the time.
Aristides de Sousa Mendes died in poverty on April 3rd, 1954
at the Franciscan Hospital in Lisbon. But even at the end of his life he knew
his actions had been justified in saving thousands of innocent lives. As he put
it himself, “I could not have acted otherwise, and I, therefore,
accept all that has befallen me with love.”
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