By Anthony Barich
THE chaplain of one of WA’s most famous holiday locations has urged the State’s Catholics to steer clear of excessive alcohol to reduce road deaths during this Easter period.
“It is indeed sad that such a joyous time of Resurrection and new life can be, for many road users, a time of sad memories because of road accidents,” Rottnest Island Catholic chaplain Monsignor Sean O’Shea said.
The safety of road traffic depends on every road user, he said, hence “the positive stimulation of behaviour, responsibility and conscience are a challenge and concern to us all”.
He urged motorists to be mindful of the Catechism of the Catholic Church in this regard: “Those who are under the influence of alcohol or abuse speed limits are a danger to others and to themselves – on the road, in the air or at sea – they are guilty of a serious sin.”
He also reminded Catholics of Pope Benedict XVI’s warning to drivers in 2005, seven months after he was elected as Pope: “I call on all drivers to drive with consideration and responsibility, so that we can effectively battle together, with representatives of authorities, against this social evil (road deaths) and diminish the number of victims”. On that day, the Pontiff also dedicated all victims of road accidents, all persons who have lost their lives in road accidents and also the many injured and their families to “the love of the Lord”.
In a statement sent to The Record last week, Mgr O’Shea also urged drivers to adhere to a “Ten Commandments of drivers” recently drawn up in Europe – broadly similar to those the Vatican issued in 2007:
– You will not be an egoist on the road.
– You will not be aggressive in word, behaviour or gestures towards others.
– Remember prayer and honour St Christopher when you start your journey – know how to be thankful.
– Respect pedestrians.
– Do not kill – always be sober.
– Wear your seat belt – you will be safe.
– Do not exceed speed limits.
– Do not put yourself or others in danger.
– Help those in trouble on the road.
– Follow all road regulations: respect the work of the police.
“Let us surround life with care … care on our roads this Easter,” Mgr O’Shea said.