Tehuantepec Diocese
Reyes joined the church in Tehuantepec in 1971. From his early days Reyes began to introduce a more radical critique of the social situations in the surrounding areas. Behind Reyes teachings and beliefs were the teachings of Vatican II, and supporting the creation of a Popular Church, more designed to assist the poor and seek social justice for those in need.
Arturo Lona Reyes was asked to resign in 1998, in response Reyes claimed he was being asked to resign due to his support for liberation theology, which advocated economic and political freedom as a means to ensure spiritual freedom. Reyes went on to state Pope John Paul II and Archbishop Jeronimo Prigione were attempting to replace all Mexico bishops that support liberation theology, citing 86 of 100 of the Mexican bishops at the time had been replaced. Reyes went on to proclaim that he would only resign if the Pope requested it of him personally in the presence of two witnesses, later stating:
| “ | "I have been putting up with humiliating behavior from these people for 27 years, then they suddenly requested my resignation, but I did not agree. I will not resign. It would be like betraying my people, the priests, and nuns, the women, men, young people, and children," | ” |
In response to Reyes's accusations, Apostolic Nuncio Archbishop Justo Mullor, cited canonical law which stated a bishop was to resign at the age of 75, further accusations were made by Prigione, stating Reyes failed to submit reports to the Vatican since 1971.
Read more about this topic: Arturo Lona Reyes