During his General Audience, the pope said that in continuing the efforts to overcome the pandemic's challenges, there is an extraordinary need for solidarity.
To do this, however, he emphasized that 'we are called to work together in bringing healing and hope to our world.'
Pope Francis said that 'solidarity implies respect for the principle of subsidiarity, whereby every level of society has a proper role to play in revitalizing the social fabric.'
SUMMARY OF POPE'S CATECHESIS
“Dear Brothers and Sisters, in our continuing catecheses on the effects of the current pandemic in the light of the Church’s social doctrine, we have reflected on the need for solidarity with all our brothers and sisters, especially the poor, the vulnerable and the excluded. As individuals, as communities and as men and women of faith, we are called to work together in bringing healing and hope to our world. Solidarity, for its part, implies respect for the principle of subsidiarity, whereby every level of society, from the state to every intermediate and lesser group, including families and the Church, has a proper role to play in revitalizing the social fabric.
As Saint Paul teaches, all the members of the body, even those apparently most insignificant, are essential to the good functioning of the whole. The lockdown has made us appreciate the quiet efforts of so many individuals and groups to serve the larger community. As we look to the future, may the principles of solidarity and subsidiarity guide our efforts to emerge from the crisis by working for a social order ever more just and respectful of the dignity and gifts of each of its members.”
