'Church must be a powerful influence in transforming nation'

The present crisis in the country is a call for the Church to introspect and repent, said Archbishop Bernard Moras of Bangalore.

In a pastoral letter, Archbishop Moras, who is also the president of the Karnataka Regional Catholic Bishops' Council, urged people to join hands to dialogue and work towards making India and the church free of corruption.

"The Church by its witness to the truth needs to be a powerful influence in transforming our nation and State by promoting humility, honesty, integrity and loyalty to God and His policies," Archbishop Moras said in a statement to the press.

"Let us introspect and unite in purpose, joining hands together to dialogue and work towards making India and the Church corruption-free."

Moras stated that the movement against corruption "must be viewed as a re-awakening of the moral consciousness of our nation, for we are created in the image and likeness of a Holy God."

On the Lokpal Bill, Archbishop Moras opined that it was a good initiative and said it will instil fear against corruption right from the top to the entire gamut of officials.

While welcoming the Lokpal Bill, the Bishop also underlined the need for it to be more effective.

"It should cover everyone, including the judiciary and the administration. Let it not be controlled by anybody. Only then will it be transparent and people will have confidence in it," he said.

The Archbishop suggested that rules be framed which are simple and easy to understand and leave no room for interpretation.