On Thursday, January 26, during a meeting with members of Acifero, the Italian Association of Foundations and Philanthropic Bodies, Pope Francis called for the cultivation of three fundamental values.
C. Rubini CTC, Vatican News
The Pope was speaking at the Vatican on the occasion of the 20th anniversary of the Italian Assifero, the Italian association of foundations and charities, greeting its members.
Francis Papa noted that the association brings together many private foundations working in different sectors in Italy and abroad to “encourage the individual and develop healthy and supportive socio-economic models”.
The beauty of diversity
The Pope pointed out that diversity is one of the most important aspects of the association due to the different origins and backgrounds of its members, which brings a legacy of diverse fields of activity, skills and working methods.
Calling them to pay special attention to three important values, the Pope said the first value is “the promotion of the integral good of the individual”, the second is “listening to local communities” and the third is “closeness to the most insignificant”, while “never forgetting that one of God’s values is closeness”.
Promotion of the inalienable good of the individual
Pope Francis explained that promoting the integral good of the person means that “material aid liberates people and makes them personal and social heroes in their growth and the development of their capacities.”
Listen to local communities
Speaking about the second value, the Pope explained that we cannot care about local communities without paying attention to local realities. “So it is very important that your intervention is not reduced to occasional help, but to sow the seeds for the future in the situations where the people live where God points you,” the Pope said.
Proximity to the most insignificant
Regarding the third and final value of “closeness to the most insignificant”, Pope Francis explained that ‘being close to the humblest’ as if the strength of a chain is in its weakest link, bending down to their wounds and taking up their needs but laying a good foundation for building united and strong societies for a better world and a future of peace.
Finally, Pope Francis thanked the members present and encouraged them to proceed “with enthusiasm and wisdom”.