Pope Leo: Persons Must Always Come First, Only Love Can Overcome Evil

Photo by Etienne Girardet on Unsplash

via the Vatican:

In his Encyclical Fratelli Tutti, Pope Francis taught us to cultivate social friendship, which is the public, dynamic and concrete expression of fraternity. Indeed, when we recognize one another in the dignity of being children of God, we come into contact with that which fundamentally unites human beings, beyond every difference, division or conflict. We can enter into one another’s experience, listen to one another and become friends — first as individuals and then as peoples. Before borders, definitions and institutions, there are always persons. This awareness lies at the heart of Christianity….

Our calculations suffocate reality, but God’s gratuitousness lets it breathe freely. It is no coincidence that my Predecessors — Saint John Paul II, Benedict XVI and Francis — have all pointed to divine mercy as the point of convergence between the Gospel and the “new things” of this dramatic and wondrous era. To follow Jesus Christ in the wake of the tragedies and new beginnings of the twentieth century indeed requires a clear awareness that evil is not overcome by evil….

Sin exists, of course, but stronger still is the redeeming love of Christ. That love commits us to purifying our thoughts, interests, habits, associations, plans and investments — indeed, every aspect of our lives – from all that the culture of power has tainted….

Let us disarm technological development whenever it becomes invasive and destructive….

Let there not be only those who fan the flames of weariness and despair; let there also be those who rekindle dreams and visions!…

Love moves us, urges us on, awakens us from our slumber, inspires new vocations and calls us to take risks. Do not be afraid to give yourselves fully! Open yourselves to a truly catholic spirit, broadening your networks beyond every overly narrow sense of belonging….

Resist whatever would separate you from brothers and sisters of different cultures, sensibilities and backgrounds, especially the poorest among them. Instead, go forth to meet everyone!

In every corner of the world, especially on the margins and among those who suffer, you will find people who are ready to help build the civilization of love. Do not let anyone belittle this word, which is the very name of God: “God is love” (1 Jn 4:16). In love, there is never coercion or indoctrination, nor manipulation, deception or recruitment. Love exists only in freedom, in genuine encounter and in the generous gift of self.