Add this to the reasons why I love being Catholic...
Because moral confusion so often is to blame for car accidents, traffic and road rage, the Vatican has released "Guidelines for the Pastoral Care of the Road," a document that details how people can exhibit Christian virtues while driving, the AP reports today.
The document advises against using automobiles for "occasions of sin," such as drinking and driving, making dangerous passing maneuvers, speeding, or picking up prostitutes, and suggests reciting the rosary en route, since its "rhythm and gentle repetition does not distract the driver's attention."
And what Vatican report would be complete without Ten Commandments to follow? (This is seriously included in the document).
- You shall not kill.
- The road shall be for you a means of communion between people and not of mortal harm.
- Courtesy, uprightness and prudence will help you deal with unforeseen events.
- Be charitable and help your neighbor in need, especially victims of accidents.
- Cars shall not be for you an expression of power and domination, and an occasion of sin.
- Charitably convince the young and not so young not to drive when they are not in a fitting condition to do so.
- Support the families of accident victims.
- Bring guilty motorists and their victims together, at the appropriate time, so that they can undergo the liberating experience of forgiveness.
- On the road, protect the more vulnerable party.
- Feel responsible toward others.
Now go in peace, brothers and sisters, to drive and serve The Lord.