Pope Francis’ talk Aug. 12 at his weekly audience reminds us to avoid individualism and indifference, and instead to recognize the human dignity in everyone.
His talk applies in many areas. It’s as simple as our everyday encounters with people. We shun individualism and selfishness when we take precautions during the COVID-19 pandemic, being considerate of others by following health guidelines such as social distancing and wearing masks. The pandemic has highlighted our vulnerability and interconnectedness as well as the heroic work of those taking care of the sick.
Ask the Lord to “give us eyes attentive to our brothers and sisters,” Pope Francis said. This issue of the Review gives many examples of how much that applies. Ursuline Academy’s priority of service is evident in its freshmen orientation program, this year with students helping maintain a cemetery and learning the history of African Americans in St. Louis. Another article cites Catholics who assist with an agency helping to prevent child abuse and neglect. Caring and compassionate efforts mark the work of the staff and volunteers at the Saint Louis Crisis Nursery and other agencies across the archdiocese, such as the federated agencies of Catholic Charities of St. Louis.
Supporters of Franciscan Charities’ efforts to provide water resources to people in need in Africa is another example of Pope Francis’ call to recognize dignity in everyone. Franciscans International states in a guide on “The Right to Sanitation and Water,” that the world is struggling with poverty, climate change, destruction of nature, shortage of resources, and access to water. “Water is essential to sustain the Earth and its inhabitants. Therefore, access to such a basic good is not a matter of choice, but a human right,” the guide states.
As the guide points out, the lack of safe water and basic sanitation leads to sickness, prevents children from attending school, and keeps parents from going to work. Improving access to water and sanitation are first steps to ensure livelihoods, education, and better health. Quality water improves food harvests and increases agricultural household income.
It’s easy to be indifferent to the plight of people in far-away lands or even to turn our backs on people in need in our communities. The excuses are many. We look out for our interests or look the other way.
Pope Francis counters by reminding us that God created us not as objects but as people loved and capable of loving, with respect for all creation. We must recognize the human dignity in every person, whatever his or her race, language or condition.