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Fifty-third year, number 47 (2.673) Friday, 20 November 2020

Mass for the Fourth World Day of the Poor Let us not be infected by indifference

“The Economy of Francesco”, an international event featuring young economists and entre- preneurs from all over the world, began on 19 November. It is being livestreamed on the francescoeconomy.org portal.

FOR THE HO LY FAT H E R ’S HO M I LY SEE PA G E 4

The necessary courage in this time of uncertainty

ANDREA MONDA ‘high’, philosophical, and ‘low’, present in Jesus’ time and still common thinking. It is a fact that today this attitude takes root Kalòs kìndinos. Ancient Greek wis- to day’s leading ‘dogma’is the cer- among Christians. For this reason dom used to say that ‘danger, risk, tainty and security that Paul too, the again in his homily is beautiful’. In his own way too, talks about in the Letter to the yesterday [to the poor] warned repeated this concept Thessalonians quoted by the Pope: against the temptation to “play a on Sunday morning as he commen- “When people say, ‘There is peace defensive game, content only to ob- General Audience ted on the Parable of the Talents: and security’, then sudden destruc- serve rules and obey command- “In the Gospel, good servants are tion will come upon them as travail ments. Those ‘mo derate’Christians Prayer transforms those who take risks. They are not comes upon a woman with child, who never go beyond boundaries, restlessness into openness fearful and overcautious, they do and there will be no escape”. Both never, because they are afraid of not cling to what they possess, but the biblical text and the Pope warn risk. And those, allow me this im- PAGE 3 put it to good use. For if goodness about the illusory nature of this at- age, those who take care of them- is not invested, it is lost, and the titude of avoiding the thrill of risk selves to avoid risk begin in their grandeur of our lives is not meas- in favour of a comforting certainty, lives a process of mummification of ured by how much we save but by but there is nothing to do: in the their souls, and they end up as ’Fratelli Tutti’ re f l e c t i o n the fruit we bear. How many thriving, safe and sound post-war mummies. Following rules is not people spend their lives simply ac- West, the only prevailing thought is enough; fidelity to Jesus is not just Dialogue, the Path for cumulating possessions, concerned what identifies truth with certainty, about not making mistakes”. Universal Fraternity only about the good life and not the for which the only dimension that However, at least apparently, good they can do. Yet how empty is has the right to call itself ‘t ru e ’is to day’s prevailing thought is pre- CARDINAL CLEEMIS ON PA G E 5 a life centred on our needs and the scientific one. Those who spend cisely that: true equals certain. A blind to the needs of others! The time in classrooms, after just a few thought that seeks to distance itself reason we have gifts is so that we days, can confirm: for the younger from this reduction of the concept can be gifts for others.... Taking generations ‘t ru e ’ is the same as of truth, as in Italy, for example, Sunday Angelus risks: there is no faithfulness certain, sure, testable, reproducible. that of Prof. Silvano Petrosino of Reach out your hand to without risk. Fidelity to God means Thus, also the concept of ‘just’ b e- the University, will have a handing over our life” comes blurred and inevitably con- very hard time catching on. For the those in need Thus, Kalòs kìndinos. However, fused with the concept of correct’ professor from Milan, ancient wis- from ancient times to our day or, even worse, ‘legal’. The legalism dom, biblical in particular, has a PA G E 8 something has happened. Along of those who seek certainties in or- the tortuous path of thought, both der to avoid risks was already CONTINUED ON PA G E 4 page 2 L’OSSERVATORE ROMANO Friday, 20 November 2020, number 47

— Fr Walter Guillén Soto, SDB, as- signing him the titular see of Nas- binca. Until he has served as rector of the Santuario Nacional de la Ju- ventud San Juan Bosco of Teguci- VAT I C A N galpa (14 Nov.). The Holy Father accepted the resig- Bishop-elect Guillén Soto, 59, was BULLETIN nation presented by Bishop Bosco born in San Pedro Sula, Honduras. Lin Chi-nan from the pastoral care He was ordained a priest on 5 of the diocese of Tainan, Taiwan (14 November 1988. He holds a licence AUDIENCES Paulo and of Uzalis N o v. ) . in theology; a licence in pedagogy (11 Nov.). and educational sciences; and a doc- Thursday, 12 November The Holy Father appointed Fr John torate in education and pedagogical Bishop Araújo da Fonseca, 52, Lee Juo-Wang as Bishop of Tainan. sciences. Lévon Boghos Zékiyan was born in Franca, Brazil. He was Until now he has served as vicar of Istanbul of the Armenians, Tur- ordained a priest on 20 December general (14 Nov.). The Holy Father accepted the resig- key 1998. He was ordained a bishop on 1 nation presented by Archbishop February 2015, subsequent to his ap- Bishop-elect Juo-Wang, 54, was Delegation of the “Communauté du Alain Paul Lebeaupin, titular of pointment as titular Bishop of Uzal- born in Taiwan. He was ordained a Chemin Neuf” Vico Equense, from the office of is and Auxiliary of São Paulo. priest on 1 January 1993. He holds a Apostolic to the European Archbishop Mario Giordana, titular degree in Philosophy and theology. Union (16 Nov.). Archbishop of Minori, Apostolic The Holy Father appointed Fr Nuncio Robert Józef Chrząszcz as Auxiliary The Holy Father appointed Fr Fran- The Holy Father accepted the resig- Bishop of Kraków, Poland, assign- çois Achille Eyabi as Bishop of the nation presented by Bishop Joseph Bishop Ambrogio Spreafico of Shipandeni Shikongo, OMI, from the ing him the titular See of Forconio. diocese of Eséka, Cameroon. Until Frosinone-Veroli-Ferentino, Italy pastoral care of the Apostolic Vicari- Until now he has served as epis- now he has served as episcopal vicar ate of Rundu, Namibia (16 Nov.). Friday, 13 November copal vicar of the Jacarepaguá Vi- and priest of the Cathedral Cardinal Luís Antonio G. Tagle, cariate in the Archdiocese of São Se- (14 Nov.). The Holy Father appointed Fr Linus bastião do Rio de Janeiro and parish Ngenomesho, OMI, as Apostolic Ad- Prefect of the Congregation for the Bishop-elect Eyabi, 59, was born Evangelization of Peoples priest of São Pedro do Mar in Rio ministrator Sede vacante et ad nutum de Janeiro (11 Nov.). in Ngambe, Cameroon. He was or- Sanctae Sedis of the Vicariate of Cardinal Leonardo Sandri, Prefect dained a priest on 3 July 1988. He Rundu (16 Nov.). of the Congregation for the Oriental Bishop-elect Chrząszcz, 51, was holds a doctorate in Sacred Theo- C h u rc h e s born in Wadowice, Poland. He was logy with a dogmatic focus. ordained a priest on 14 May 1994. FOR Saturday, 14 November He holds a degree in Philosophical The Holy Father appointed as Aux- LAT I N AMERICA Cardinal Marc Ouellet, PSS, Prefect t h e o l o g y. iliary Bishops of the Metropolitan of the Archdiocese of Tegucigalpa, Hon- The Holy Father appointed as ad- The Holy Father accepted the resig- duras: visor to the Pontifical Commission Delegation from the “Congrès Mis- nation presented by Archbishop Al- for Latin America Fr. Alexandre Awi sion” of France bert D’Souza from the pastoral care — Fr Teodoro Gómez Rivera, assign- Mello of the Schönstatt Fathers, sec- Bishop Giovanni D’Ercole, Bishop of the Metropolitan Archdiocese of ing him the titular of retary of the for the Laity, emeritus of Ascoli Piceno, Italy Agra, India (12 Nov.). Castellum Tatroportus. Until now Family and Life (13 Nov.). he has served as vicar general and The Holy Father appointed Bishop Archbishop Angelo Vincenzo Zani, episcopal vicar for pastoral ministry CARDINAL TA K E S POSSESSION titular Bishop of Volturno, Secretary Raphy Manjaly as Metropolitan (14 Nov.). of the Congregation for Catholic Archbishop of Agra. Until now he On 15 November, Cardinal Giovanni Education (for Educational Insti- has served as Bishop of Allahabad, Bishop-elect Gómez Rivera, 57, Battista Re, Prefect emeritus of the tutes) India (12 Nov.). was born in El Banquito, Honduras. Congregation for Bishops and Dean He was ordained a priest on 27 Archbishop Manjaly, 62, was born of the , took January 1996. He holds a degree in in Vendere, India. He was ordained possession of the title of the Subur- CHANGES IN EP I S C O PAT E philosophy and theology; a licence a priest on 11 May 1983. He was or- bicarian Church of Ostia, in the in Sacred Theology with a dogmatic dained a bishop on 30 April 2007, Cathedral of Sant’Aurea in Ostia The Holy Father appointed Bishop fo cus; Antica. Petrus Canisius Mandagi, MSC, as subsequent to his appointment as Metropolitan Archbishop of Bishop of Varanasi, India. On 17 Merauke, Indonesia. Until now he October 2013 he was appointed has served as Bishop of Amboina, Bishop of Allahabad. Indonesia (11 Nov.). The Holy Father accepted the resig- Cardinal Henryk Gulbinowicz dies Archbishop Mandagi, 71, was nation presented by Bishop Paul born in Kamangta, Indonesia. He Ervin Schmitz Simon, OFM Cap., The Polish Bishops’ Conference announced the death of 97-year-old Car- was ordained a priest on 18 Decem- from the pastoral care of the diocese dinal Henryk Gulbinowicz, Archbishop emeritus of Wrocław, via a tweet ber 1975. He was ordained a bishop of Bluefields, Nicaragua (12 Nov.). on Monday morning. on 18 September 1994, subsequent to Henryk Roman Gulbinowicz was born on 17 October 1923 in Sukiškės his appointment as Bishop of Am- The Holy Father appointed Fr Fran- in the Archdiocese of Vilnius, and received his priestly ordination on 18 b oina. cisco José Tigerino Dávila as Bishop of Bluefields. Until now he has June 1950. The Holy Father accepted the resig- served as rector of the Nacional On 12 January 1970, he was appointed titular Bishop of Acci and nation presented by Bishop Nuestra Señora de Fátima Inter- Apostolic Administrator of Vilnius for the territory included in the Polish Fernando Mason, OFM Conv., from diocesan Seminary in Managua (12 political borders. He was ordained a bishop on 8 February 1970. On 3 the pastoral care of the diocese of N o v. ) . January 1976, he was appointed Archbishop of Wrocła w. Piracicaba, Brazil (11 Nov.). Bishop-elect Tigerino Dávila, 57, In the Consistory of 25 May 1985, he was created a Cardinal with the The Holy Father appointed Bishop was born in Chinandega, Nicaragua. title of Immacolata Concezione di Maria a Grottarossa. He resigned from Devair Araújo da Fonseca as Bishop He was ordained a priest on 5 Janu- the pastoral care of the archdiocese on 3 April 2004. of Piracicaba. Until now he has ary 2002. He holds: a bachelor’s de- On November 6 a statement by the Apostolic Nunciature in Poland served as of the gree in education; a degree in philo- announced that the Cardinal had been subjected to disciplinary measures Metropolitan Archdiocese of São sophy and theology. following an investigation into charges of sexual harassment.

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GENERAL AU D I E N C E

As he continued his series of catecheses on prayer at the General Audience on Wednesday morning, 18 November, Pope Francis reflected on the Mary as a prayerful woman and a model of humility. The following is a translation of the Holy Father’s words which he shared in Italian from the private library of the Vatican’s .

Pope Francis’ catechesis on Mary, prayerful woman and model of humility Prayer transforms restlessness into openness

Dear Brothers and Sisters, like this and do not get upset member of the community. She “Mary kept all these things, Good morning! when problems fill their days, but prayed with them and prayed for pondering them in her heart” (Lk rather they face reality, knowing them. And, once again, her pray- 2:19). This is how the evangelist In our course of catecheses on that in humble love, in love Luke depicts the Mother of the prayer, today we meet the Virgin er preceded the future that was offered in each situation, we be- Ma r y as the prayerful woman. Our about to be fulfilled: by the work Lord in the infancy Gospel. Lady prayed. When the world come instruments of God’s grace. of the Holy Spirit she became the Everything that happened around still knew nothing of her, when “Lord, what you want, when you Mother of God, and by the work her ended up being reflected on she was a simple girl engaged to want, and how you want”. A of the Holy Spirit she became the in the depths of her heart: the a man of the house of David, simple prayer, but one in which Mother of the Church. Praying days filled with joy, as well as the Mary prayed. We can imagine the we place ourselves in the Lord’s with the nascent Church, she be- darkest moments when she too young girl of Nazareth wrapped hands so that he may guide us. came the Mother of the Church, struggled to understand by which in silence, in continuous dialogue We can all pray like this, almost accompanying the disciples in the roads Redemption must pass. with God who would soon en- without words. first steps of the Church in pray- Everything ended up in her heart trust her with a mission. She is Prayer knows how to calm rest- er, awaiting the Holy Spirit. In si- so that it might pass through the already full of grace and immacu- lessness. But we are restless, we lence, always silently. Mary’s sieve of prayer and be trans- late from the moment she was always want things before asking prayer was silent. The Gospels re- figured by it: whether it be the conceived; but she knows nothing for them, and we want them right count only one of Mary’s prayers gifts of the Magi, or the flight in- yet of her surprising and ex- away. This restlessness harms us. at Cana, when she asked her son to Egypt, until that terrible pas- traordinary vocation and the And prayer knows how to calm for those poor people who were sion Friday. The Mother kept stormy sea she will have to cross. restlessness, knows how to trans- about to make a terrible impres- everything and brought it to her One thing is certain: Mary be- form it into availability. When we sion during the banquet. So, let dialogue with God. Someone has longs to a great host of the are restless, I pray and prayer us imagine: having a wedding compared Mary’s heart to a pearl humble of heart whom the offi- opens my heart and makes me banquet and ending it up with of incomparable splendour, cial historians never include in open to God’s will. In those few milk because there is no wine! formed and smoothed by patient their books, but with whom God moments of the Annunciation, What a bad impression! And she acceptance of God’s will through prepared the coming of his son. the Virgin Mary knew how to re- prayed and asked her son to re- the mysteries of Jesus meditated in prayer. How beautiful it would Mary did not autonomously ject fear, even while sensing that solve that problem. In and of it- be if we too could be a bit like conduct her life: she waited for her “yes” would bring her tre- self, Mary’s presence was prayer, our Mother! With a heart open God to take the reins of her path mendously difficult trials. If in and her presence among the dis- to God’s Word, with a silent and guide her where he wanted. prayer we understand that each ciples in the Upper Room, await- heart, with an obedient heart, She was docile, and with her day given by God is a call, our ing the Holy Spirit, was prayer. with a heart that knows how to availability she prepared the hearts will then widen and we Thus Mary gave birth to the grand events in which God takes will accept everything. We will Church, she is the Mother of the receive God’s Word and allows it part in the world. The Catechism learn how to say: “What you Church. The Catechism explains: to grow with the seed of good for recalls her constant and caring want, Lord. Promise me only that “In the faith of his humble hand- the Church. presence in the benevolent design you will be present every step of maid, the Gift of God”, that is, of the Father throughout the my way”. This is what’s import- the Holy Spirit, “found the ac- SPECIAL GREETINGS course of Jesus’ life (cf. CCC, ant: to ask the Lord to be present ceptance he had awaited from the 2617-2618). in every step of our way: that he beginning of time” (CCC, 2617). I cordially greet the English- Mary was praying when the not leave us alone, that he not In the Virgin Mary, natural speaking faithful. In this month Archangel Gabriel came to bring abandon us in temptation, that feminine intuition is exalted by of November, let us continue to his message to her in Nazareth. he not abandon us in the bad her most singular union with pray for our deceased loved ones, Her small yet immense “Here I moments. The end of the Our God in prayer. This is why, read- and for all who have died, that am”, which made all of creation Father is like this: the grace that ing the Gospel, we note that she the Lord in his mercy will wel- jump for joy in that moment, had Jesus himself taught us to ask of seems to disappear at times, only come them into the Kingdom of been preceded throughout salva- the Lord. to reappear in crucial moments: heaven. Upon you and your fam- tion history by many other “H e re Mary accompanied Jesus’ e n t i re Mary was open to God’s voice ilies I invoke the joy and peace of I ams”, by many trusting obedi- life in prayer, right up to his that guided her heart, that guided our Lord Jesus Christ. God bless ences, by many who were open to death and resurrection; and in the her steps where her presence was you! Go d’s will. There is no better way end, she continued and she ac- needed. Her silent presence as Lastly as usual my thoughts to pray than to place oneself like companied the first steps of the mother and as . Mary was turn to the elderly, to young people, Mary in an attitude of openness, nascent Church (cf. Ac t s 1:14). present because she was Mother, to the sick and to newlyweds. I ex- with a heart open to God: “L o rd , Mary prayed with the disciples but she was also present because hort you to love the Church of what you want, when you want, who had witnessed the scandal of she was the first disciple, the one the Lord; to collaborate with gen- and how you want”. That is, a the cross. She prayed with Peter who best learned Jesus’ ways. erosity and enthusiasm toward heart open to God’s will. And who had succumbed to fear and Mary never said: “Come, I will her edification; to live the offer of God always responds. How many cried in remorse. Mary was there, take care of things”. Instead she your suffering as a precious con- believers live their prayer like with the disciples, in the midst of said: “Do whatever he will tell tribution to the House of the this! Those who are more humble the men and women whom her you”, always pointing her finger Lord, the dwelling place of the of heart pray like this: with essen- son had called to form his Com- at Jesus. This behaviour was typ- Most High among us. tial humility, let’s put it that way; munity. Mary did not act like a ical of the disciples, and she was with simple humility: “Lord, what priest among them, no! She is the first disciple: she prayed as you want, when you want, and Jesus’ Mother who prayed with Mother and she prayed as a dis- how you want”. And they pray them, in the community, as a ciple. page 4 L’OSSERVATORE ROMANO Friday, 20 November 2020, number 47

Homily for the Fourth World Day of the Poor Let us not be infected by indifference

On Sunday 15, November, Pope Francis celebrated ing over our life, letting our carefully laid plans Holy Mass in Saint Peter’s to mark the be disrupted by our need to serve. “But I have Fourth World Day of the Poor. Attending were a my plans, and if I have to serve…”. Let your representation of the poor and disadvantaged, along plans be upset, go and serve. It is sad when with the volunteers who accompany them and Christians play a defensive game, content only to representatives of the charitable entities that assist observe rules and obey commandments. Those them on a daily basis. The following is the English “mo derate”Christians who never go beyond text of the Holy Father’s homily. boundaries, never, because they are afraid of risk. And those, allow me this image, those who take The parable we have just listened to has a begin- care of themselves to avoid risk begin in their ning, a middle and an end, which shed light on lives a process of mummification of their souls, the beginning, the middle and the end of our lives. and they end up as mummies. Following rules is The beginning. Everything begins with a g re a t not enough; fidelity to Jesus is not just about not good. The master does not keep his wealth to him- making mistakes, this is quite wrong. That is what self, but gives it to his servants; five talents to the lazy servant in the parable thought: for lack one, two to another, one to a third, “to each ac- of initiative and creativity, he yielded to needless cording to his ability” (Mt 25:15). It has been cal- own hands or at the opportunities for work that fear and buried the talent he had received. The culated that a single talent was equivalent to the master actually calls him “wicked” (v. 26). And income of some twenty years’ work: it was of the Lord has given us, never at our own situ- ation… not even at our own poverty. yet he did nothing wrong! But he did nothing enormous value, and would be sufficient for a good either. He preferred to sin by omission This brings us to the centre of the parable: the lifetime. This is the beginning. For us too, rather than to risk making a mistake. He was not work of the servants, which is service. Service is everything began with the g ra c e of God — faithful to God, who spends freely, and he made our work too; it makes our talents bear fruit and everything always begins with grace, not with our his offence even worse by returning the gift he it gives meaning to our lives. Those who do not own efforts — with the grace of God, who is a had received. “You gave me this, and I give it to live to serve, serve for little in this life. We must Father and has given us so many good things, en- you”, nothing more. The Lord, for his part, asks repeat this, and repeat it often: those who do not trusting different talents to each of us. We possess us to be generous, to conquer fear with the cour- live to serve, serve for little in this life. We should a great wealth that depends not on what we pos- age of love, to overcome the passivity that be- reflect on this: those who do not live to serve, sess but on what we are: the life we have received, comes complicity. Today, in these times of uncer- serve for little in this life. But what kind of ser- the good within us, the indelible beauty God has tainty, in these times of instability, let us not vice are we speaking of? In the Gospel, good ser- given us by making us in his image… All these waste our lives thinking only of ourselves, indif- vants are those who take risks. They are not fear- things make each of us precious in his eyes, each ferent to others, or deluding ourselves into think- one of us is priceless and unique in history! This is ful and overcautious, they do not cling to what ing: “peace and security!” (1 Thess 5:3). Saint how God looks at us, how God feels towards us. they possess, but put it to good use. For if good- Paul invites us to look reality in the face and to We need to remember this. All too often, when ness is not invested, it is lost, and the grandeur of avoid the infection of indifference. we look at our lives, we see only the things we our lives is not measured by how much we save but by the fruit we bear. How many people spend How then do we serve, as God would have us lack, and we complain about what we lack. We serve? The master tells the faithless servant: “Yo u then yield to the temptation to say: “If only…!” their lives simply accumulating possessions, con- cerned only about the good life and not the good ought to have invested my money with the If only I had that job, if only I had that home, if bankers, and at my coming I should have re- only I had money and success, if only I didn’t they can do. Yet how empty is a life centred on our needs andblindtothe needs of others! The reason ceived what was my own with interest” (v. 27). have this or that problem, if only I had better Who are the “bankers” who can provide us with people around me…! But those illusory words — we have gifts is so that we can be gifts for others. And here, brothers and sisters, we should ask long-term interest? They are the p o o r. Do not for- if only! — prevent us from seeing the good all get: the poor are at the heart of the Gospel; we around us. They make us forget the talents we ourselves the question: do I only follow my own needs, or am I able to look to the needs of oth- cannot understand the Gospel without the poor. possess. You may not have that, but you do have The poor are like Jesus himself, who, though rich, this, and the “if only” makes us forget this. Yet ers, to whoever is in need? Are my hands open, or are they closed? emptied himself, made himself poor, even taking God gave those talents to us because he knows sin upon himself: the worst kind of poverty. The each of us and he knows our abilities. He trusts It is significant that fully four times those ser- poor guarantee us an eternal income. Even now us, despite our weaknesses. God even trusts the vants who invested their talents, who took a risk, they help us become rich in love. For the worst servant who will hide his talent, hoping that des- are called “faithful” (vv. 21.23). For the Gospel, kind of poverty needing to be combatted is our pite his fears, he too will put to good use what he faithfulness is never risk-free. “But, father, does poverty of love. The worst kind of poverty need- received. In a word, the Lord asks us to make the being a Christian mean taking risks?” — “Ye s , ing to be combatted is our poverty of love. The most of the present moment, not yearning for the dearly beloved, take a risk. If you do not take Book of Proverbs praises the woman who is rich past, but waiting industriously for his return. risks, you will end up like the third [servant]: in love, whose value is greater than that of pearls. How ugly is that nostalgia, which is like a black burying your abilities, your spiritual and material We are told to imitate that woman who “op ens mood poisoning our soul and making us always riches, everything”. Taking risks: there is no faith- her hand to the poor” (Prov 31:20): that is the look backwards, always at others, but never at our fulness without risk. Fidelity to God means hand- great richness of this woman. Hold out your hand to the poor, instead of demanding what you lack. In this way, you will multiply the talents you have re c e i v e d . The season of Christmas is approaching, the The necessary courage holiday season. How often do we hear people ask: “What can I buy? What more can I have? I CONTINUED FROM PA G E 1 revealing themselves to be cause we need to re-examine must go shopping”. Let us use different words: fecund. our concept of truth, of what is “What can I give to others?”, in order to be like much broader concept of truth This parable, like the others truly reliable. Perhaps we Jesus, who gave of himself and was born in the that does not coincide with in the Gospel, has a lot to say should also consider that this m a n g e r. certainty but with fecundity especially today, ‘in these times ‘d e s t ru c t i o n ’ that suddenly We now come to the end of the parable. Some (which is not the same as fertil- of uncertainty and instability’ struck us is in reality fecund, will be wealthy, while others, who had plenty and ity). And it is precisely the Par- as the Pope defined them on because indeed it resembles the wasted their lives, will be poor (cf. v. 29). At the able of the Talents that demon- Sunday. If we look at our time, ‘contractions’ of a pregnant end of our lives, then, the truth will be revealed. strates this. The “wicked” ser- indeed we see society shaken to woman who is thus preparing, The pretence of this world will fade, with its no- vant is afraid of risk, of the un- its core precisely because all carrying within her a paradox- tion that success, power and money give life certainties of the market, and our certainties have crumbled; ical means of growth and salva- meaning, whereas love — the love we have given clings to the one certainty he the pandemic has put every — will be revealed as true riches. Those things thinks he has: that one talent kind of certainty — even sci- tion. But in order to under- stand it we need to invest in will fall, yet love will emerge. A great Father of that his master has given him entific — into crisis. If we con- the Church wrote: “As for this life, when death dreams and creativity, running (which the master invested in tinue to seek certainties then comes and the theatre is deserted, when all re- the risk of even changing the him). And his “non-choice” we risk going mad; even means move their masks of wealth or of poverty and de- will inevitably remain fruitless of communication bombard us very rules of life to which we part hence, judged only by their works, they will while the others are the true with data and statistics. From are too attached, like that be seen for what they are: some truly rich, others faithful servants, because they this standpoint they seem to single talent that we end up id- p o or” (SAINT , Homilies on the took risks and freely and cour- reflect the uneasiness and gen- olizing, preserving it under- ageously interpreted their role, eral uncertainty. Perhaps be- ground, just like a mummy. CONTINUED ON PA G E 8 number 47, Friday, 20 November 2020 L’OSSERVATORE ROMANO page 5 Fratelli Tutti

Reflection by the -Catholicos of Trivandrum Dialogue, the Path for Universal Fraternity

CARDINAL BASELIOS CLEEMIS their neighbors with fear and mis- trust, characteristic of individualistic In many respects the apostolic work ideology (152). Populism and liberal of Pope Francis can be compared to capitalism, the two dominant ideolo- that of St. Augustine: the Bishop of gies that control market and politi- Release of the Malayalam edition of ‘Fratelli Tutti’ in Kerala, India. Hippo who advocated a rigorous ap- cal psyche, manage only to mislead From the left: Fr James Alakkuzhiyil, OCD, His Beatitude Baselios Cardinal Cleemis, proach to inner church discipline yet people for the benefit of few; and Mr John Venitius and Fr Joseph Nellickasseril kept a compassionate outlook to the the left ideologies that may console human reality around him and he smaller groups remain ineffective at may be regarded as the first pro- the larger scale. Pope Francis points To block the prevalence of econom- An Ethnicity of Universal Fraternity ponent of love as a political value. out that we cannot let the falsely ics over politics, ‘it is essential to de- Crossing the boarders set by eth- In De Civitate Dei, Augustine ap- conceived ideals of freedom and effi- vise stronger and more efficiently or- nic (and religious) differences with proaches secular history and politics ciency, as promoted by the market ganized international institutions, courage and generosity is a key mo- with a methodical distrust and, en- economy, determine our lives. He with functionaries who are app oint- ment in the story of the Good visages a ‘p olitics’based on the per- proposes inclusive decision-making ed fairly by agreement among na- Samaritan. Still, the stranger on the ennial principles of divine revelation (137-138), promotion of solidarity tional governments, and empowered road is a problematic sign for our as constituting Christian identity. (114-117), and ‘re-envisaging the so- to impose sanctions’ (172). As a con- times — as revealed by the context of Fratelli Tutti, the latest encyclical cial role of property’ (118-120) crete measure, the Pope calls for a migration. The national and cultural of Pope Francis re-proposes love as among solutions to the situation. reform of the UN (173). heritages that constitute ethnicities are of great importance — they are a political value and continues to But above all, it is about being truly Here we are into the practical di- not to be simply set aside or neg- represent the Lord’s compassionate a . ‘A truly human and mensions of the magisterial teach- gaze on the human misery. Yet it fraternal society will be capable of lected. Yet cultures are to be encour- ings of Pope emeritus Benedict XVI aged to open to other cultures in a progressively redefines the idea of ensuring in an efficient and stable on the political aspect of love, sum- Christian identity. In fact, the heart way that each of its members is ac- mutually enriching dialogue; and marily presented in of this encyclical is a radical chal- companied at every stage of life.’ the same is true of national identi- (28b) and further detailed in Caritas lenge to all types of self-enclosed (109) And as the Pontiff explains ties. Ethnicities are to move forward, identities — local, cultural, political with the help of the leading image in Veritate (7 et passim). Commit- while being grounded in their ori- and religious. It challenges them to of the Good Samaritan, the accom- ment to common good, expressed in ginal cultural substratum (134-137). grow beyond themselves by finding paniment involves both personal gestures of mutual care, becomes a Of course, such encounters are to be the correct balance between integral care given to one’s brother in need power that can really transform the backed with governmental action growth and self-giving. It challenges and ensuring that the systems of world. Charity enlightened by truth such as developmental aid to weaker them to do away with boundaries by care are made use of (the inn in the — about the true nature and dignity nations and political validation and dynamically and correctly correlating parable, 78). of humanity — is ‘the spiritual heart accommodation of emigrants. But the local and the global, the politic- of politics’ (187). Here charity not the major attention of Fratelli Tutti is on building up of the larger family al and the spiritual, the historical A Politics of Love only informs a personal act, but also — the human family. The true worth and the perennial aspects of their aims to transform the social struc- It is easy to see that in Fra t e l l i of a nation is not in its ability to self-definitions. The Document pro- Tu t t i , the Pope’s primary reference as tures (186), empowering others to phetically proposes that the correct think of itself as a nation but also as system of care is the nation state and face miseries of the human condition a part of a larger human family balance is not the safe balance, but he builds on the traditional catholic on their own, with dignity (187). It the challenging balance — a balance (141). view that the Church and the state helps politicians to overcome popu- The Document certainly alludes that ensures progress. need to co-operate for common list impulses and to find effective to the theological foundation of hu- good. The problems of our age are An Economy of Care solutions to situations of social ex- man family — that all are children of so large that they cannot be resolved clusion and injustices. Charity will one Father (46) and all are part of Fratelli Tutti only through co-operation between is not primarily con- drive them to move from fine dis- the universal plan of redemption in cerned with the economic aspects of individuals or even between small course to concrete action, first and Christ (85). But the more frequent human welfare, but an awareness groups (126). States have a signifi- foremost in ensuring fundamental appeal is to the human nature itself that economic inequality constitutes cant role to play in this context. (87). Human beings have an innate a major hindrance to the building While states are ideally conceived as rights — like the right to food (189) — for all people and everywhere. (70) capacity and almost a necessity up of true fraternity. Presupposing systems protecting those inviolable to be connected to one another. Per- In order to make love a cultural the magisterial teaching hitherto re- rights with which human beings are haps the Holy Father perceives this garding private property and its just born and they are to flourish, in our and political value we must be ready as a more inclusive ground for real- use (123), it addresses several con- present day they are dominated by to overcome the aspects of cultural ization of universal fraternity. But texts of modern life where attitude the forces of market economy (172) fragmentation prevalent in our this innate ability has a theological to material well-being causes divi- and a collective form of individual- present-day society and to forego dimension (93) and moral virtues sions between individuals, nations ism, the latter leading to exclusive pursuit of success in view of real find their fuller meaning only with and societies. Economic forces are at nationalism (141, 152). Humanitarian fruitfulness. It requires a special ‘charity that God infuses’ (91). This work, for example, behind increas- crises in different parts of the world strength to be tender, to have ‘the love that helps us to seek for others ing isolation and reduction of indi- make migration inevitable and en- love that draws near and becomes the best in their lives (104) and viduals into consumers (12), aliena- sues a new interpretation of the invi- re a l ’ (194). It requires also courage opens up what is best in us for the tion and abandonment of individu- olable rights of people for living to start actions whose fruits will be good of all around us. This love, als that are ‘no longer needed’ (18- with dignity — including right of reaped by others. Without these, the which is universal in both geograph- 19), reduction and misinterpretation land beyond the borders of their na- qualities of the Good Samaritan, ic and existential dimensions, is the of rights and opportunities (20, 22), tions of origin (121-126). The pan- there is no political love. It is with real life-force of human fraternity. propagation of hatred and violence demic situation also reveals the lim- The Holy Father takes special ef- the same strength and courage, im- through misinformation (45) viol- its of governments dominated by fort to point out that this universal- ence under various cultural and economic and nationalistic concerns. bibed with the Christian hope that ism will become an empty notion political guises (25) and marginaliza- Consequently, states need to affirm love can transform life and its struc- without a preferential outlook for tion of immigrants (37). Not only in- their authority over economy (177), tures, that the Pope calls for dis- those who are in gravest need (187, dividuals but even small nations are and should look forward to ‘f o rg i n g avowal of terror — including that of existential foreigner in 97), and intimidated by the forces of market a common project for the human war — in political activity and aboli- (51) and sometimes nations treat family, now and in the future’ (178). tion of death penalty (255-270). CONTINUED ON PA G E 7 page 6 L’OSSERVATORE ROMANO Friday, 20 November 2020, number 47 f aces of the Church

Fr Luke on the island of Rhodes A pastor for refugees

ROBERTO CETERA Greek would one day be useful, liv- than roses! And then, I must tell ing on a Greek island full of history. you, I am an enthusiastic supporter Do you speak Italian? “I am more I then moved to London for uni- of Pope Francis’ Laudato Si’ . Here Italian than the Italians!” This is versity; I enrolled at the prestigious you will find ecology in practice: we how Fr Luke, a parish priest, intro- King’s College. But before I began recycle everything; we preserve water duced himself. He is a Franciscan university, as a gap year, I decided and energy; we don’t use plastic; we ministering on the islands of Rhodes to take a course in Applied Social have our animals; we go almost and Kos. And indeed when speak- Science. It was a course that in- everywhere on foot”. are many tourists on the island, I ing to Father Luke I noticed he has cluded a lot of field experience, so I We return to the friary which tell them: ‘Before you depart, leave all the typical ways of native Italian found myself coming to know for once housed dozens of . “I’ll anything you can, even opened con- speakers: the gift of gab, lively ges- the first time in my life many mar- introduce you to my lovely little pet tainers of toothpaste or bodywash, ticulation, pleasant facial expres- ginal realities that I did not even Pe rc y ”. I imagine that in the island slippers, the food you haven’t eaten: sions, and the floodgates open when imagine existed. The homeless, the evenings the keeps the com- here everything is useful’”. He con- I inquire about his mission to sick, various forms of addiction, pany of a faithful dog or an affec- tinues: “I try to help them in every refugees, quite the contrary of that contact with a world that touched tionate kitten. I am therefore open- way I can, except for transit proced- stereotypical reserved, somewhat im- and changed me deeply. While con- mouthed with amazement when I ures. I don’t want to interfere with passive manner of the British. Yet Fr tinuing my classical studies with a meet Percy: a splendid python, a the work of the local authorities, Luke Gregory really is English, born passion, I realized that my life was couple of meters long. Fr Luke and they in turn leave me to do my 62 years ago in Sheffield, the cradle beginning to take an unexpected do esn’t seem at allsurprised by my job, even if at times they try to pre- of the industrial revolution in South path, that of a vocation at the ser- astonishment, and remaining angelic vent the landings. After the first ar- Yorkshire, just above the Midlands. vice of the poor, the discarded, the — and rather British — he impass- rivals I decided to go to Syria, to What is an English Franciscan do- least. Galeotto was on a pilgrimage ively explains to me: “Percy, Perseus: my confreres in Aleppo and also to ing in Rhodes? “Actually, I belong to accompanying the sick to Lourdes. like the son of Zeus and Danae, but Damascus, to become better aware the Custody of the Holy Land, T h e re ”, Fr Luke continues, “I met a also like the constellation between of the situation they were fleeing. I whose jurisdiction has always, as is Franciscan friar who fascinated me Andromeda and Auriga”. saw devastation and despair like well known, also extended into some very much, telling me about the The turning point in Fr Luke’s never before. Today the origin of areas bordering the land of Jesus, ‘fifth Gospel’: the Land of Jesus. So life happened just 10 years ago, with refugees has changed: there are few- er Syrians, and more Africans from such as Rhodes. I arrived here I went to Jerusalem and there I dis- the outbreak of civil war in Syria. the north and the Horn of Africa, somewhat by chance”, he says, “after covered the link between my passion Many fled from the bombs, and and especially many Palestinians having served in Jerusalem and for the ancient world, the historical Rhodes is one of the safer and fleeing from Gaza. With the Bethlehem, and from obedience, I truth of Kerygma, and life dedicated closer harbours where the rubber Palestinians I feel at home again. At have been here for many years now. to others. I found myself naturally, boats of the desperate can make the moment”, he continues, “t h e re Perhaps because originally I too so to speak, a Franciscan novice in port. They would arrive in the hun- are about 250 refugees on the island; come from an island, but I felt at Ein Karen, the village of the Baptist; dreds and then thousands during they are camped out in a warehouse, home right away on this island, and and then in Jerusalem to study theo- these years. And they would always in what was once the slaughterhouse today, I’ll tell you: I could not ima- l o g y. find Fr Luke, even at night, waiting for the island: a terrible symbol. I gine myself elsewhere”. I spent some very happy years in to welcome them, refresh them, and do what I can; I try to help every- For many years many people have the Holy Land; I was a cantor at the support them. “Actually I have nev- one. Many are Muslims and it seems looked toward the beauty of Holy Sepulchre, a secretary of the er wondered what I should be do- not to matter at all that I am a Rhodes: “Fr Luke is an extraordin- Custody, and then in Bethlehem ing. It is natural to welcome a ary person, you’ll see”. And in fact, Catholic priest; they seem to be very during the very difficult time of the brother or sister, who flees. There from our first contact I could see the fond of me. During the Islamic holi- second Intifada. I lived the beauty really is little to think about, isn’t prediction was spot-on. If you ex- days I prepare typical sweets in or- of the ancient liturgies at the Holy there? I don’t ask them anything but pect to find a missionary who sadly der to help them feel less far from Sepulchre, but also the terrible as- they themselves tell their stories and tells you about the many tribulations home. On the other hand, here in pects of human suffering in the Oc- their faces speak volumes. I bring of the poor people he helps, you Rhodes solidarity makes everyone cupied Territories”. As we talk, Fr them food but also shampoo, soap will be disappointed. Fr Luke has brothers and sisters. I have an excel- Luke walks around the friary garden and razors. I stock up in the local the extraordinary ability to navigate lent relationship also with our Or- between true pain and despair while proudly showing me his crops. supermarkets, inaccessible to them. I thodox brothers and sisters and also maintaining an approach that is al- “Here there were some beautiful buy things with the money sent to with the Protestants. We have set up ways positive, full of hope and good roses. I took them out and now me by the Father Custos, the Com- a chapel on our premises for the will, joyful in the Franciscan sense. there are these, which are even more missariats of the Holy Land, and Lutheran pastor so they can celeb- And his character is certainly the b eautiful”, and he showsme a row from Italy, the generous donations rate their liturgy”. Fr Luke continues most important element of the char- of zucchini, tomatoes, lettuce, egg- of the Pro Terra Sancta asso ciation. to work even while he is speaking to ity that he dispenses with both plants. “Refugees need food more In the summer months when there me; he seems to never tire. “Do you hands. “Yes, I bring them a lot of never tire of doing good?”, I ask things they need to live”— he says, him. “No, I feel I am a fulfilled speaking of the refugees — “but man: what is it that could possibly what makes them happier and more make you happier in life than to see grateful is that I spend time with the results of the good things you them, listen to them, talk to them, are trying to do?”. offer them a word of hope. It is im- And by now Fr Luke’s efforts are portant to understand that the first well known even beyond the con- and most difficult thing a refugee fines of the island and also outside has to suffer is loneliness, the feeling the ecclesial circuits, earning solidar- of strangeness you feel when you are ity, support and also gratitude. So it in a land that is not your own. Far was that the President of the Italian from your home, from your birth- Republic, Sergio Mattarella, wanted place”. to express his appreciation for Fr But tell us a little of your life before, Luke’s work with refugees, honour- Fr Luke. “I went to school in Shef- ing him with the title of Knight of field, where I learned to love the the Order of the Star of Italy. Pat- classic Greek and Latin languages rizia Falcinelli, the Ambassador of and cultures. I never would have imagined that my love for ancient CONTINUED ON PA G E 7 number 47, Friday, 20 November 2020 L’OSSERVATORE ROMANO page 7

Archbishop emeritus of Remembering Cardinal Vela Chiriboga

foundation, an organization that gathers Mass intentions in countries Upon learning of the Cardinal’s death, Pope Francis expressed his with a greater availability of money, condolences in a telegram addressed to Archbishop José Espinoza Mateus which is then distributed among the of Quito. The following is a translation of the Pope’s telegram which was neediest Ecuadorian priests. written in Spanish, accompanied by a brief biography of the late Cardinal. On 21 March 2003 he was ap- p ointed Archbishop of Quito, where In hearing the news of the death of Cardinal Raúl Eduardo Vela he worked above all for education Chiriboga, Archbishop emeritus of Quito, I offer you, Your Excel- and priestly formation and imple- lency, my condolences, asking that you kindly pass them on to the mented a project that engaged all family members of the late prelate and to those who belong to that the parishes in the education of ecclesial community. Likewise, remembering this selfless pastor who young people. He opened a clinic for years faithfully dedicated his life to the service of God and the offering medical assistance to indi- Church, I offer suffrage for his soul’s eternal rest, that the Lord grant gent priests and opened an auditori- him the crown of glory that never fades, and to all I impart my um named after Benedict XVI in the Cardinal Raúl Eduardo Vela Chiri- Apostolic Blessing as a sign of Christian hope in the Risen Lord diocesan home for the clergy. He re- boga, Archbishop emeritus of Quito, tired as Archbishop of the Metropol- passed away at the age of 86 on itan See on 11 September 2010 and FRANCISCUS P P. Sunday, 15 November, in the in October of that year served as the Ecuadorian capital. He had been Pop e’s Special Envoy to celebrate hospitalized for palliative care for a the 475th anniversary of the first dio- month and a half, during which time cese of Peru and South America, the Apostolic Nuncio Andrés Carrascosa Conference, serving until 1970 when 1979, that of Delegate to the third current Archdiocese of Cuzco. He Coso visited him several times and he was elected Secretary General. General Conference of the Latin- was created the fifth Ecuadorian car- Pope Francis offered comfort and On 20 April 1972 he was app oint- American Episcopate in Puebla de dinal by Benedict XVI in the Con- c h e e r. ed titular Bishop of Ausafa and los Angeles. From 1981 to 1988 he sistory of 20 November 2010, with The late Cardinal was born in Auxiliary Bishop of Guayaquil. He served as a member of the Episcopal the Title of Santa Maria in Via, and Riobamba in 1934. One of nine chil- selected “Cum Maria Matre Jesu”as Conference of Latin America participated in the Conclave which dren, he attended Don Bosco his episcopal motto and was or- (CELAM). Among his roles within the elected Pope Francis on 13 March Salesian high school before entering dained a bishop on 21 May 1972 by Conference was that of President of 2013. He served as the Pope’s Spe- the San José Major Seminary, where Cardinal Pablo Muñoz Vega, then the commissions for social ministry cial Envoy to the 10th anniversary he studied theology and philosophy. the Archbishop of Quito. During this (1980-1986) and for liturgy (1986- celebrations for the National He also studied abroad, taking time he also worked with the Chris- 1995). Eucharistic Congress of Peru in courses in theological, pastoral and tian Family Movement. In Guaya- On 8 July 1989 he was appointed 2015, and for the concluding jubilee liturgical formation. quil he worked in particular with Military Ordinary of and celebrations of the Archdiocese of He was ordained a priest on 28 Archbishop Bernardino Echeverría transferred to the titular see of Lima in 2017, on the occasion of the July 1957 and served as secretary of Ruiz, whom he considered a point Pauzera, where he continued to fourth centenary of the death of the diocesan curia for 10 years, until of reference and spiritual teacher. carry out his ministry even after re- Saint Rose of Lima. 1967. During those years he also On 29 April 1975 he was app oint- tiring from the titular Church in Among the honours bestowed on served as director of Caritas ed Bishop of Azogues, a poor and 1998. At the Vatican in October him, he received Ecuador’s Decora- Riobamba and cooperated with pas- new diocese, in which he worked 1994, he participated in the Ninth tion of the Armed Forces and Na- toral service for indigenous people. among indigenous people and fo- Ordinary General Assembly of the tional Police, and received an honor- He established the Colegio de cused on social promotion. He en- Synod of Bishops on the theme ary degree from the Pontifical Cath- Fátima to help educate young people abled many Church lands to pass to “ and its Mission in olic University of Ecuador. in the face of life’s challenges. In the poorest. The Episcopal Confer- the Church and in the World”. In Funeral services were held on 1968, he was appointed Undersecret- ence of Ecuador entrusted him with 2000 he was elected President of the Tuesday, 17 November in the ary of the Ecuadorian Episcopal many roles including, in February “Misas para los sacerdotes del Ecuador” Cathedral of Quito.

Dialogue, the Path for Universal Fraternity A pastor for refugees

CONTINUED FROM PA G E 6 CONTINUED FROM PA G E 5 counter with its perennial embodi- the past but the capacity to reach ments. Since nobody can claim a peace through dialogue and honest Italy in Athens, says Fr Luke is a without care to respect, preserve monopoly on the latter, the only negotiation. profound connoisseur of the eastern and enrich individual (100, 106-111) possible way ahead is getting into The sincerity of the Holy Fath- Mediterranean and of the tensions and local identities (142-153). His sincere dialogue, with the convic- er’s proposals for meaningful co-ex- associated with it. “As well as being ‘war’ is on the self-enclosed identit- tion that others have something istence of human beings can be an extraordinary example of dedica- ies (e.g., local narcissism 146; nar- worthwhile to contribute. With pa- seen in his readiness to apply the tion and generosity in his work in row nationalism 11), and ideologies tience and commitment, it is pos- same principle — rejection of self- favour of the needy, refugees and like individualism, that make creat- sible to build consensus, which are enclosed, non-dialogical identities — migrants, Fr Luke also represents a ive dialogue impossible. prejudicial neither to objective truth to the plurality of religions as well. fundamental point of reference for nor to genuine interests of the soci- Fratelli Tutti is not only offering a the Italian community in Rhodes A Culture of Dialogue ety. Encountering the other, in sin- creative challenge to the contem- and for the promotion of Italian cul- porary world, but also is proposing A significant part of Pope Fran- cere aspiration to find points of ture and values on the island. This numerous points for introspection cis’ criticism of contemporary cul- contact and platforms to promote is why the President wanted to hon- work for common good, need to and self-reform to all units and ture is directed against opinionated our him with this recognition, at the standpoints, false ideologies, misin- develop into a culture. levels of ecclesial life. recommendation of the Italian Am- formation perpetrated in everyday Patience with the social reality is For the world to move forward bassador to Greece”. life (gossips) and in social media, key in this process. Remarkable is and to realize the common call of and shallow relationships promoted the Pontiff’s admission that even all humanity to live as one family, He seems quite surprised by all in new media culture. After defin- refusal to accept good ideas and vi- the only way is to engage in open this fame: “There is nothing ex- ing real sociality as getting near olent social protests can have a and sincere dialogue, not only at traordinary in what I do: welcoming and getting real in spirit of fratern- genuine context (219). Conflicts the personal level, but also at all the foreign refugee is a duty not a ity, the Pope contemplates more the with those who offend our dignity levels of social and political life. merit. For everyone. And so, when world of opinions and beliefs and are legitimate and genuine love re- That is the central message of Fra - this pandemic ends, plan a holiday its relation to truth in the last three quires our commitment to make telli Tutti, the way for universal fra- to Rhodes: this place is so beautiful, chapters of Fratelli Tutti. them realize their mistakes (241). t e r n i t y. and perhaps you can give me a Truth has historical and contex- Forgiveness in social context, thus, hand”. And, bidding farewell, he tual manifestations, which need to is neither a mute compromise with Major Archbishop-Catholicos, saunters away with Percy coiled af- reform themselves through en- evil, nor forgetting the wounds of Trivandrum, India. fectionately around his neck. page 8 L’OSSERVATORE ROMANO Friday, 20 November 2020, number 47

ANGELUS

At the Angelus on Sunday, 15 November, the Fourth World Day of the Poor and penultimate Sunday of the liturgical year, the Holy Father invited the faithful to “stretch forth your hand to the poor”, as he reflected on the day’s Gospel reading on the Parable of the Talents. The following is a translation of the Pope’s words which he shared in Italian.

Reach out your hand to those in need The Pope prays for the Philippines, the Ivory Coast and Romania

Dear Brothers and Sisters, counts. The first two present the hand to the poor. You are not people. Let us learn from her to Good morning! good fruit of their efforts; they alone in life: there are people reach out a hand to the poor. have worked and the master On this penultimate Sunday of who need you. Do not be selfish; the liturgical year, the Gospel praises them, compensates them hold out a hand to the poor”. We After the Angelus, the Pope continued: and invites them to partake in his have all received from God a presents us the well-known Par- Dear brothers and sisters, I am able of the Talents (cf. Mt 25:14- feast, in his joy. The third, “patrimony” as human beings, a however, realizing he is at fault, human richness, whatever it may close in prayer to the people of 30). It is part of Jesus’ discourse the Philippines, who are suffering on the end times, which immedi- immediately begins to justify be. And as disciples of Christ we himself, saying: “Master, I knew have also received the faith, the from the destruction and above ately precedes his passion, death all the flooding caused by a and resurrection. The parable de- you to be a hard man, reaping Gospel, the Holy Spirit, the Sac- strong typhoon. I express my scribes a rich gentleman who has where you did not sow, and gath- raments, and so many other solidarity to the poorest families to go away and, foreseeing a long ering where you did not winnow; things. These gifts should be absence, entrusts his property to so I was afraid, and I went and used to do good, to do good in subjected to these calamities, and three of his servants: to the first hid your talent in the ground. this life, in service to God and to my support to those who are try- he entrusts five talents; to the Here you have what is yours” ( v v. our brothers and sisters. And ing to aid them. second, two; to the third, one. 24-25). He defends his laziness by today the Church tells you, she My thought also goes to the Jesus specifies that the distribu- accusing his master of being tells us: “Use what God has given Ivory Coast, which is celebrating tion is made “to each according “h a rd ”. This is a habit that we you and look at the poor. Look: the national Day of Peace today, to his ability” (v. 15). The Lord have too: we defend ourselves, there are so many of them; even in a context of social and politi- does so with all of us: he knows many times, by accusing others. in our cities, in the centre of our cal tensions which, unfortunately us well; he knows we are not all But they are not at fault: the fault city, there are many. Do good!”. have caused many victims. I join is ours; the flaw is ours. And this the same and does not wish to fa- At times, we think that to be in prayer to obtain the gift of na- vour anyone to the detriment of servant accuses others; he accuses tional harmony from the Lord, the master in order to justify him- Christian means not to do harm. the others, but entrusts an And not doing harm is good. But and I exhort all sons and daugh- amount to each according to his self. We too, many times, do the ters of that dear country to co- same. So the master rebukes him: not doing good is not good. We or her abilities. must do good, come out of operate responsibly for reconcili- During the master’s absence, he calls the servant “wicked and ation and peaceful coexistence. I slothful” (v. 26); he has the talent ourselves and look, look at those the first two servants are very who are more in need. There is so encourage in particular the differ- busy, to the point of doubling the taken from him and has him cast ent political actors to re-establish out of his house. much hunger, even in the heart of amount entrusted to them. It is our cities; and many times we a climate of mutual trust and dia- not so with the third servant, who This parable applies to every- enter into that logic of indiffer- logue, in the quest for just solu- hides the talent in a hole: to one but, as always, to Christians ence: the poor person is there, tions that protect and promote avoid risks, he leaves it there, safe in particular. Today too, it is very and we look the other way. Hold the common good. from thieves, but without making topical: today is the Day of the out your hand to the poor per- Yesterday, a fire broke out in a it bear fruit. The moment comes Poor, in which the Church tells son: it is Christ. Some say: “But hospital facility in Romania for the return of the master, who us Christians: “Stretch forth your these priests, these bishops who calls the servants to settle ac- hand to the poor. Hold out your which housed various patients talk about the poor, the poor.... with coronavirus, claiming several We want them to talk to us about victims. I express my closeness eternal life!”. Look, brother and and pray for them. Let us pray sister, the poor are at the heart of for them. the Gospel; it is Jesus who taught I greet all of you, faithful of World Day of the Poor us to speak to the poor; it is and pilgrims from various Jesus who came for the poor. countries. Do not forget, today, CONTINUED FROM PA G E 4 He dried their tears with his Hold out your hand to the poor. that that voice of the Church gentleness, in the name of God You have received many things, rings in our heart: “Stretch forth Poor Man Lazarus, II, 3). If we who consoles. The beginning of and you let your brother, your do not want to live life poorly, his day was prayer, to receive your hand to the poor. Because, sister die of hunger? you know, the poor person is let us ask for the grace to see Je- Go d’s gifts; the c e n t re of his day Dear brothers and sisters, may Christ”. I am delighted, in partic- sus in the poor, to serve Jesus in was charity, to make the love he each one say in his or her heart ular, by the presence of the chil- the poor. had received bear fruit; the end was his clear witness to the Gos- what Jesus tells us today; repeat d re n ’s of Hösel (Germany). I would like to thank all pel. This man realized that he in your heart: “Hold out your Thank you for your hymns! those faithful servants of God had to stretch out his hand to hand to the poor”. And Jesus I wish everyone a happy who quietly live in this way, all those poor people he met tells us something else: “Yo u Sunday and please, do not forget serving others. I think, for ex- daily, for he saw Jesus in each of know, I am the poor. I am the to pray for me. Enjoy your lunch! ample, of Father Roberto Mal- them. Brothers and sisters, let us p o or”. Ar r i v e d e rc i ! gesini. This priest was not inter- ask for the grace to be Christi- The Virgin Mary received a ested in theories; he simply saw ans not in word, but in deed. To great gift: Jesus himself, but she Jesus in the poor and found bear fruit, as Jesus desires. May did not keep him to herself; she meaning in life in serving them. this truly be so. gave him to the world, to his