By Belize Live News Staff: As Caye Caulker residents prepare to vote in the upcoming referendum on marijuana legalization, the Roman Catholic Diocese of Belize City and Belmopan has released a pastoral statement urging voters to reject legalization.
The Diocese described marijuana use as a threat to Belizean families, youth, and moral values, emphasizing that “our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit.” The Church called on the faithful to reflect deeply on the long-term effects of legalization, warning that it would harm young people, damage families, threaten public health, and fuel crime.
Citing the teachings of Pope St. John Paul II and Pope Francis, the Diocese said drug abuse “impoverishes every community where it exists,” and reiterated that “drug addiction is an evil” that cannot be compromised.
The statement also warned that legalization could undermine tourism, drive away family-oriented visitors, and give organized crime new opportunities to profit.
The Diocese concluded by encouraging voters to “say yes to life, yes to love, yes to education, and yes to greater job opportunities,” while urging unity and prayer ahead of the referendum.
