Recklessly overtaking other cars can be a sin, the Vatican said in a warning to drivers on Tuesday advising motorists to make the sign of the cross before hitting the road.
“Overtaking dangerously can be a sin,” said Cardinal Renato Martino as he presented recommendations put together by the Pontifical Council for Migrants and Itinerant People.
While condemning some drivers’ “lack of courtesy, rude behaviour, swearing and blasphemy”, the document calls on motorists to make the sign of the cross before getting into their cars.
The recommendations — which are to be made available in Roman Catholic parishes — remind believers that “means of transport … can promote Christian virtues, carefulness, patience and charity”.
“He who knows Jesus is careful on the road,” the document said, listing 10 recommendations for drivers that recall the Ten Commandments.
“Cars must not be an expression of power, domination and an occasion to sin,” reads the fifth recommendation.
The Vatican “Orientations” also touch on prostitution, homeless people and children living it rough in the streets. — AFP