Freedom is one of the noblest expressions of human dignity. Yet, in the contemporary context of Kerala, we must reflect deeply on whether civic freedom is gradually being reduced to the protection of uncontrolled personal interests. In a society where people speak excessively about rights while maintaining a culpable silence about duties, “civic consciousness” risks shrinking into a mere academic term.
Sacred Scripture reminds us: “Live as free people, yet do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as servants of God” (1 Peter 2:16). Freedom is not liberation from responsibilities, but rather the strength to embrace them. The cornerstone of civic awareness is the realization of how one’s personal attitudes and actions affect the common well-being of society. A culture that mistakenly interprets the violation of laws as a sign of civic strength is a silent crisis.
Christ, who taught us to render to Caesar what belongs to Caesar and to God what belongs to God, has given us a profound example in fulfilling civic duty. True civic culture is formed not out of fear of laws, but out of respect for one’s fellow human being. The Golden Rule-“Therefore, whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them” (Matthew 7:12)-must become an integral part of our social life.
Even within the inner life of the Church, civic consciousness and freedom must be properly understood and clearly expressed. Freedom in the Church is not self-centered individualism, but rather a complementary unity as members of the Body of Christ. It is when each of us faithfully and humbly fulfills the duties entrusted to us in the Church that we truly experience spiritual freedom. Authority and positions must not be viewed as claims of privilege, but as service to our brothers and sisters. The words of Saint Paul-“Through love, serve one another” (Galatians 5:13)-must be the foundation of every action within the Church. Obedience to ecclesial laws and traditions does not diminish our freedom; rather, they are bonds of love that hold us securely within a great spiritual family.
What we need is not a competition of demands, but a sharing of responsibilities. Only by fulfilling one’s duties does a person gain the moral legitimacy to speak for one’s rights. Rooted in Gospel values of love and justice, and united with civic responsibility, let us together take steps toward a higher and more authentic civic culture.
Major Archbishop Mar Raphael Thattil
