We continue to take a closer look at Pope Francis’ encyclical, Laudato Si’ (“Praise be to You”). This week, we will concentrate on the cry of the poor, which, as Pope Francis reminds us, is closely related to the cry of the earth. We must all ask ourselves, “Am I part of the problem or part of the solution?” As faithful Christians, we must ensure that we are not idle bystanders; instead, we need to observe, notice, and have the desire and willingness to do something to help the situation. Action, not apathy, should be our guide.
Caring for the poor has always been an important part of the Christian faith, as is emphasized by Jesus Himself. What, then, are some things we can do?
- Openly defend human life from conception to natural death.
- Visit and advocate for the compromised and poor.
- Address their basic needs for food, clothing, personal hygiene, and shelter.
- Help at soup kitchens and shelters.
- Show genuine care and love.
In the words of Pope Francis, we pray:
Oh, God of the poor
Help us to rescue the abandoned and
Forgotten on this Earth.
So precious in your eyes,
Bring healing to our lives,
That we may protect the world and
Not prey on it.
That we may sow beauty,
Not pollution and destruction.
Amen.
