DUMAGUETE Bishop Julito Cortes called on “families torn by politics” in the recent local and national elections to move toward reconciliation.

“For all of us who went through this divisive election, we should forgive each other,” Cortes said in a video message.

“Let us return to nurturing our relationships with one another as family, relationships that were torn because of politics,” he said.

The bishop stressed that “change is not just external but also internal in each of us and in our homes.”

While he assured the Church’s “cooperation” with the government for the welfare of the public, he said the diocese will also monitor the campaign promises of the newly elected leaders.

The prelate congratulated the victors, reminding them to always seek the grace of knowledge to see the “will of God for His people.”

“The hand of God can be seen in history,” he said. “God is the one who gave them the authority. God calls them to serve, especially the weak and poor in our society.”

For those who did not win, he enjoined them not to lose hope.

“Losing does not mean complete failure but an opportunity for the will of God for you to happen,” Cortes said.

“When a window closes, another opens,” he added. “Search for God’s purpose for you through faith and in obedience to the Holy Spirit,” he added.

Bontoc-Lagawe Bishop Valentin Dimoc also offered prayers “for the broken and strained relationships of family and friends” caused by the recent elections.

Dimoc said that although it will take a long time before the anger subsides, people can start by accepting that those who won in the elections are those chosen by the majority of voters and this should be respected.

“This takes time. We should start by accepting that each person is considered one vote and the will of the majority of voters is to be respected. The will of God is to work for the common good. We may eventually find ourselves discussing or debating on specific things that promote the common good, but this is encouraged in a democratic country,” according to Bishop Dimoc.