Pope Calls for Unwavering Commitment to Holy See’s Financial Overhaul
- Pope Francis has written to all cardinals of the College of Cardinals, emphasizing the importance of supporting the economic reforms being undertaken by the Holy See.
- The Pope reminded the cardinals of their roles and responsibilities in governing the universal Church, stating, "Your role is to assist the Pope in governing the universal Church."...
- The Pope highlighted the progress made since the beginning of the reform, thanks to the promulgation of the Apostolic Constitution Evangelii Preaching.
Pope Francis Urges Cardinals to Support Economic Reforms in the Holy See
Pope Francis has written to all cardinals of the College of Cardinals, emphasizing the importance of supporting the economic reforms being undertaken by the Holy See. In his letter, dated September 16, the Pope stressed the need for financial transparency, responsibility, and solidarity within the Holy See.
The Pope reminded the cardinals of their roles and responsibilities in governing the universal Church, stating, “Your role is to assist the Pope in governing the universal Church.” He emphasized that the task of accompanying those involved in the process of change falls “on you, brother cardinals.”
The Pope highlighted the progress made since the beginning of the reform, thanks to the promulgation of the Apostolic Constitution Evangelii Preaching. This reorganization of the Roman Curia laid the foundation for the reform of the entire Vatican institution, reflecting the principle of “constant renewal of the Church.”
The restructuring of the Roman See aims to ensure that it can assist the Successor of Peter in fulfilling his supreme pastoral mission, serving the universal Church and the particular Churches. The Pope thanked the men and women who have made efforts and sacrifices to adjust to this process of reform, calling it “a testimony of dynamism and grace.”
The Need for Economic Reform
The Pope stressed the need to continue focusing on economic reform, a topic widely discussed before the 2013 conclave electing the pope. He noted that the reforms previously called for by many members of the College of Cardinals were far-sighted, helping to raise awareness that “economic resources for mission are limited and must be managed strictly and conscientiously.”
The Pope urged continued efforts to eliminate the Holy See’s budget deficit and strive for the achievable goal of “zero deficit.” He emphasized the ethical principles used to improve financial performance, encouraging each institution to seek external resources to support its mission.
Solidarity and Cost Reduction
The Pope also spoke of the importance of solidarity among the Vatican’s institutions. He stated, “The institutions of the Holy See can learn a lot from the solidarity of good families. Those who are financially well-off help those who are in need.” This form of generosity is rooted in the Gospel and is an essential basis for the Church’s request for generosity from the outside world.
The Pope urged concrete measures to reduce unnecessary expenditures within the Vatican, promoting a spirit of “removing the essentials while retaining the essential” in its operations. He encouraged the institutions to “avoid redundancies, choose our priorities carefully, and increase mutual cooperation and collaboration.”
Muster the Courage to Strengthen Cooperation
The Pope called on the cardinals to support the ongoing reform with “courage, service, and generosity.” He encouraged the cardinals to contribute constructively to this process by sharing knowledge and experience, stressing that the work of each institution forms part of a greater whole, integrated in the common mission of serving the Church.