BOGOTÁ, Feb 13, 2026 — The bishops of Colombia have concluded their 120th Plenary Assembly with a strong appeal for national conversion, dialogue, and reconciliation, urging citizens to actively and responsibly participate in the country’s upcoming elections.
In their final document, released at the close of the assembly in Bogotá, the bishops reaffirmed their commitment to accompany the Colombian people in the search for justice and peace. They entrusted the nation to the intercession of Our Lady of the Rosary of Chiquinquirá, patroness of the country.
A Call to Conversion and Reconciliation
With Lent approaching, the Episcopal Conference of Colombia urged Colombians to take “authentic steps of conversion” and return to unity and friendship.
Reconciliation, the bishops stressed, is not an abstract ideal but a concrete path of personal and social healing.
They pledged to continue promoting forgiveness and peace, encouraging citizens to:
- Build bridges across political and social divisions
- Foster dialogue and mutual recognition
- Work toward unity as members of one national family
Support for the Most Vulnerable
The bishops expressed special concern for vulnerable communities affected by seasonal flooding. On February 15, the Church launches its annual Christian Communication of Goods Campaign, which supports families in need — particularly those impacted by the winter season.
The collection traditionally begins on the First Sunday of Lent and is dedicated to assisting the poorest and most affected communities.
Message to Priests and Society
The bishops thanked priests across Colombia for their presence and service, describing priestly formation and well-being as a primary pastoral responsibility.
They also issued direct appeals to various sectors of society:
- Children and young people — to cultivate friendship with Jesus Christ and become builders of a better future.
- Families — to continue being “schools of social virtues.”
- Government institutions — to promote human rights, strengthen democracy, and encourage dialogue.
- Political candidates — to avoid verbal violence and propose truthful paths toward reconciliation and development.
- Business leaders — to foster fair wealth distribution.
- Media professionals — to communicate responsibly.
Encouraging Free and Conscientious Voting
As Colombia prepares for parliamentary elections in March and presidential elections in May, the bishops called on all citizens to vote “in full freedom and conscience, without corruption.”
At the invitation of Colombian authorities, the European Union Election Observation Mission will monitor both elections. EU High Representative Kaja Kallas has appointed Esteban González Pons as Chief Observer.
A Message of Hope
In a country that has long struggled with violence and political fragmentation, the bishops’ message is clear: lasting peace requires conversion of heart, responsible civic engagement, and a renewed commitment to dialogue.
They concluded by encouraging Colombians to become “builders of peace and witnesses of hope,” working together for reconciliation and the common good.