Political Intervention of the Church

Paper Summary:

This paper analyzes the intricate ropes that bind and separate the Church and state in the Philippines. The paper discusses some pros and cons of the overlap of Church and state in this country. The paper also aims to prove that culture and religion contribute to governance and politics, as dictated by the history and tradition in the Philippines.

Table of Contents:
Thesis Statement
Church-State History
Church Response to Political Turmoil
Downside of Political Involvement
Call for Action

From the Paper:

"In the Philippines, the Church and state are tripartite institutions that provide impetus to human development. The Philippines Constitution, however, decrees the separation of these two units wherein they must act as different entities that are mutually exclusive to each other. Each body maintains its own responsibility in the formation of its members."
"To meet the demands of her social and moral roles, the Church exceeds her boundaries by exercising constant political interference. While the Church should limit herself to the spirituality of the flock, she seizes opportunities to criticize government proceedings, and campaigns for the radicalization of Church followers. Despite the principle of Church-state separation, the Church sees it fit to use her people to influence government decisions and fight against weak governance in the state. The state alleges overstepping on the Church's part and the laity's spirituality continually suffers."
"The Church demands state adherence to her teachings. Yet members of the state are not limited to Church followers alone. For instance, the EDSA revolutions, notable state affairs, "had a strongly Catholic flavor... but not all of those at EDSA were of the same faith... there were Protestants, Aglipayans, non-religious, and even born-again Christians" (Constantino, 1991, p. 51)."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Anderson, G. H. (1969). Studies in Philippine church history. London: Cornell University Press.
• Arbuckie, G. A. (1996). Refounding the church. Quezon City: Claretian Publications.
• Bolasco, M. V. (1994). Points of departure: Essays on Christianity, power, and social change. Malate, Manila: St. Scholastica's College.
• Constantino, R. (1991). The sin of some fathers: Church-state relations. Quezon City: Karrel.
• Durkin, M., Greeley, A., McCready, W., Sheer, J., & Tracy, D. (1981). Parish priests and

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