The pope continued with this new cycle of reflections on the problems brought to light by the pandemic, or as he called them, “social ills.”
Pope Francis first pointed out that this health emergency shows that we are all vulnerable and interconnected.
POPE FRANCIS
“If we don't take care of each other, starting with the least, with those most affected, even with creation, we won't be able to heal the world.”
The pope said one of these infirmities derives from selfishness, another virus for which the world also needs a cure.
POPE FRANCIS
“One of these is the distorted vision of the person, a gaze that ignores the person's dignity and relational character. Sometimes we see others as objects to use and discard. In reality, this type of gaze blinds and foments an individualistic and aggressive throwaway culture, which transforms the human being into a consumer good.”
That's why Pope Francis reminded the faithful that, in light of the faith, we must look at others with God's eyes, knowing that each man and woman is graced with a unique dignity in harmony with Creation.
POPE FRANCIS
“Thus, the believer, contemplating his neighbor as a brother and not a stranger, sees him with compassion and empathy, not with contempt nor enmity. We want to recognize the human dignity of each person, regardless of his or her race, language or condition.”
The pope also lamented the destruction of the harmony created by God when this relationship between people and Creation deteriorates.
Lastly, he encouraged the faithful to commit to fighting this disease of indifference that violates the dignity of so many human beings.
