For the president of the Pontifical Academy for Life, Archbishop Vincenzo Paglia, war is especially cruel in its treatment of elderly persons. They don't often appear in the photos of wars because they are reluctant to flee, and as a result get trapped and forgotten near the front lines.
ABP. VINCENZO PAGLIA
President, Pontifical Academy for Life
'I think it is extremely urgent that we take care of this emergency and especially of the weakest, who are already marginalized. And during war, they are doubly so.'
Archbishop Paglia says it is important to reduce tensions and encourage the formation of peaceful social movements, such as Pope John Paul II did with the trade union Solidarnosc in Poland.
ABP. VINCENZO PAGLIA
President, Pontifical Academy for Life
'It was a peaceful movement that managed to succeed in overthrowing a communist system and power structure. It is an example of the strength of non-violence, which should be embraced and sustained.'
One of Archbishop Paglia's concerns is that the increase in life expectancy in Europe leaves many people without a purpose or place in the community in old age.
ABP. VINCENZO PAGLIA
President, Pontifical Academy for Life
'Imagine that if from ages 0 to 30 we left our kids without any direction. That would be crazy. This happens from 70 to 100. We have no economic, political, cultural or even spiritual plan for them.'
It's a subject he's brought up to Pope Francis, suggesting that he give a series of catechesis on the elderly and aging, which the Pope then began at his General Audience. Among the solutions he offers is encouraging dialogue between those from different generations.
ABP. VINCENZO PAGLIA
President, Pontifical Academy for Life
'There are two extremes in age, and if they see each other, encounter one another, it would be very helpful, to the adults as well, to help them understand that life is a gift and relational.'
As president of the Pontifical Academy for Life, Archbishop Paglia assures that recognizing the fragility of the young and the elderly is essential for anyone aspiring to lead a full and fruitful life.
AO
TR: JM
