CASTEL GANDOLFO, Italy, AUG. 18, 2008 (Zenit.org).- Benedict XVI is encouraging Christians to make an examination of consciences regarding their conduct behind the wheel.
The Pope spoke of traffic accidents Sunday in his reflection before praying the midday Angelus with crowds who had gathered at the papal summer residence at Castel Gandolfo, south of Rome.
He called numerous driving accidents "another prayer intention."
"Human life is too precious and it is too unworthy of man to meet death or become an invalid due to causes that could mostly be avoided," the Holy Father said. "There is certainly a need for a greater sense of responsibility, above all by drivers, as accidents are often caused by excessive speed and imprudent conduct."
"Driving on public roads calls for moral and civic sense," the Pontiff affirmed.
He noted the "indispensable" role of authorities in fostering this sense of responsibility. But, Benedict XVI added, the Church too feels responsible for road safety, "at the ethical level."
"Christians must above all make a personal examination of conscience on their own conduct as drivers," he said. "Moreover, communities should educate everyone to consider traffic as a field in which life must be protected and love of neighbor concretely exercised."
ZE08081804 - 2008-08-18
Permalink: http://www.zenit.org/article-23398?l=english
Pontiff Advises Against Road Rage
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