Bishop Óscar Blanco delivers homily at Te Deum 2026

Bishop Óscar Blanco called on citizens and authorities to build a society where everyone is included during his homily at the 2026 Te Deum Ecumenical service. Speaking at the Punta Arenas Cathedral, the bishop used the biblical figure of Nehemiah to suggest that large social transformations begin with small, persistent, and hopeful actions.

Blanco stated that creating a more just society requires repairing social bonds, restoring trust, and committing to solidarity. He specifically urged the community to focus on the dignity of the person, the family, and social justice, noting that the state cannot manage these tasks alone. He highlighted the need to support those often overlooked, such as the poor, the elderly, children, and young people.

Addressing the specific needs of the Magallanes region, the bishop identified challenges including high living costs, limited connectivity, and difficulty accessing healthcare specialists in southern localities. He suggested that policies must account for the unique characteristics of the extreme region and called for true regionalization.