Profile July 29, 1991 Issue

To see that divine justice is always present

with contributions from Felisa Delia Mignone

A blindfolded statue of justice may symbolize fairness under the law. But real justice demands vision—an ability to see past competing pressures and legal complexities to equitable solutions. This kind of vision comes with prayer, as Dr. Felisa Delia Mignone has learned from her career in the law and in government in Argentina. Dr. Mignone recently returned to private law practice after thirteen years of service in the government of Argentina, including posts in the executive office. Here she explores some of the ways in which prayer has brought to light a higher sense of justice.

Legal decisions are usually based on tangible evidence. Why do you feel prayer can have an effect in legal disputes? I have a wonderful memory of my first case. When I got my degree as a lawyer, a friend of mine introduced to me a young man who had bought a lot in one of the subdivisions on the outskirts of Buenos Aires, where people belonging to more humble districts could buy a piece of property. Unfortunately, the companies selling the land are often unscrupulous. They parcel out lots and sell them, offering easy terms so the people can build their own houses. But the companies take advantage of many people's ignorance and of their need to have a home.

This young man had bought a lot and was paying a very low monthly payment. Then all at once, with the changes in the value of real estate taking place in Argentina and with the changes of value in the currency, the company asked him to pay a monthly payment that was three times higher. When he went to pay, they would not accept any payment from him. The situation was such that if he did not make payments for three months, he would lose his lot. The company had already refused to accept two monthly payments. Very few days were left for him to pay his third payment.

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