The Pope met with the members of the Federation of Italian Philanthropic Organizations and encouraged them to show compassion, be close to the weak and care for them, in order to build a stable society.
(Vatican News Network)Pope Francis received members of the Italian Federation of Charitable Foundations and Organizations (Assifero) at the Vatican on January 26. Founded 20 years ago, the federation brings together charities from different fields in Italy and abroad each other The pope praised “the method of the federation and its clear Christian spirit”.
The federation works to promote human rights and “develop a sound and stable social and economic model”. The Pope called this act “a charity of all dimensions”.
“Therefore, I would recommend that you pay particular attention to three important values in your programmes: firstly, to promote the general welfare of people; secondly, to listen to local groups; , which is one of God’s attributes: close and caring he is, merciful and gentle.”
Next, the Pope first elaborated on the first point: “to promote the general welfare of the human being”. We should help people to “take ownership of their personal and community growth, development of abilities and talents”.
Speaking about “listening to local communities”, the pope pointed out that it is essential that the actions of the federation “are not just occasional help, but sow seeds for the future”. The members of the federation should “listen humbly” in order to be “a voice for the weakest in public institutions”.
Regarding “being close to the weak and caring for him”, the Pope quoted a proverb: Although the links are weak, the chains are strong. The Pope ended by exhorting: “Be close to the weak, to lean close to their wounds, to take responsibility for their needs. All this is a good basis for building a united and strong community for a better world , a peaceful future.”
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