Offending the traffic rules won’t just get you into trouble with the police but you may now have to answer to the higher authority. This is what the Vatican affirmed in its own version of the religious experience of motoring.
If you’ve ever experienced Rome’s traffic, you can comprehend why the Vatican is so apprehensive with driving habits, and won’t be astonished that this isn’t the first time it has spoken directly to the drivers. In fact, in 1956, Pope Pius XII urged to respect other road users with obliging nature.
Publishing its 10 commandments for drivers, the Vatican recommended they should pray vocally, especially taking turns with fellow traveller in reciting the prayers, as when reciting, it does not distract the driver’s attention due to its rhythm and gentle repetition. The Vatican’s Guidelines for the Pastoral Care of the Road promises that this would help driver and passengers to feel immersed in the presence of God under his protection.
Cars being used by their owners to show off, and as a mean to outshining other people arousing a feeling of envy; impels people to seek power in order to assert themselves. This is expressed through speed causing hazards which is a major cause of deaths of more than 1.2 million people every year on the world’s roads. The Pope’s advisors undoubtedly believe the time has come to give the Vatican’s backing to road safety.
According to the Vatican’s Guidelines for the Pastoral Care of the Road, the Christian virtue of drivers and their “Ten Commandments” are as follows:
I. You shall not kill.
II. The road shall be for you a means of communion between people and not of mortal harm.
III. Courtesy, uprightness and prudence will help you deal with unforeseen events.
IV. Be charitable and help your neighbour in need, especially victims of accidents.
V. Cars shall not be for you an expression of power and domination, and an occasion of sin.
VI. Charitably convince the young and not so young not to drive when they are not in a fitting condition to do so.
VII. Support the families of accident victims.
VIII. Bring guilty motorists and their victims together, at the appropriate time, so that they can undergo the liberating experience of forgiveness.
IX. On the road, protect the more vulnerable party.
X. Feel responsible towards others.
Let’s hope these guidelines and the ten commandants will help healing the roads making them better and safe. The fixation to be kept in mind is not to close the eyes and bow while driving although no one would actually do that.
Image Credit: Readexiled
Source: Guardian
