“Our choices directly influence others”: Angolan Catholic Bishop Urges Accountability and Solidarity

“Many of the difficulties faced by families and society result from personal actions whose effects extend far beyond those who commit them,” Bishop Jaca said. 

He added, “The behaviour of each citizen has repercussions in the community, whether positive or negative, which is why everyone is called to act with responsibility and awareness of the consequences of their actions.”

The Angolan member of the Society of the Divine Word (SVD) explained that this reality can be observed in various aspects of life, including family relationships, economic activities, and community interactions. 

He highlighted the influence individuals exercise within their own environments, particularly within the family, saying, “A good father does a lot of good for his family; a bad father does a lot of harm to his family and those around him.”

Addressing the social situation in Angola, Bishop Jaca expressed concern about attitudes marked by a lack of responsibility and commitment to the common good, noting that such behavior often worsens the difficulties faced by vulnerable families and communities.

He emphasized that stronger and healthier communities can only be built when citizens embrace values such as honesty, solidarity, respect, and accountability.

According to the Catholic Bishop, meaningful social transformation begins with the daily decisions made by individuals. While institutions have an important role to play, he said, lasting change depends largely on how people fulfill their responsibilities toward one another.

“Social change depends not only on institutions but also on how each person fulfills their responsibilities,” he noted.

The Catholic Church leader also underscored the importance of strengthening family values, describing the family as the first school of human and moral formation. 

He said parents and educators have a crucial role in shaping future generations and transmitting principles that foster responsible citizenship.