Vatican City (AsiaNews) - "We have much to receive from the poor whom we approach and whom we help," not only because "Their presence is a reminder of our common humanity, of the fragility of life, of the dependence on God and on our brothers and sisters," but also because "they are often witnesses of what is essential, of family values," said Pope Francis during a meeting with a delegation from the Pro Petri Sede Association, which raises funds for the needs of the Holy See.
After expressing his gratitude, Francis said, "The growing number of people who are marginalized or who live in great insecurity challenges us and demands a burst of solidarity to give them the material and spiritual support they need. And at the same time, we have much to receive from the poor whom we approach and whom we help. Struggling with their difficulties, they are often witnesses of what is essential, of family values; they are able to share with those who are even poorer than they, and they know to rejoice, as I was able to note in my recent Apostolic Voyage to Asia."
"Indifference and selfishness are always lurking," the pontiff went on to say. "Care for the poor enriches us, placing us on the path of humility and of truth. Saint Paul wrote to the Corinthians: 'What do you possess that you have not received?' (1 Cor 4:7). Their presence is a reminder of our common humanity, of the fragility of life, of the dependence on God and on our brothers and sisters. I invite you, therefore, especially on the occasion of Lent, which is about to begin, to ask the Lord to give you a merciful and poor heart, [a heart] that recognises its poverty and that spends itself for others (cf. Message for Lent 2015).
"With the precious gift you give today to the Successor of Peter, you come in aid of populations sorely tried in different parts of the world. With this solidarity, you offer them also the spiritual comfort of not feeling forgotten in their trials, and of preserving hope. I warmly thank you on their behalf. I invite you to pray earnestly for peace, so that political leaders might find paths of dialogue and of peace."
"Dear friends," he said in concluding, "I hope that your pilgrimage will increase in each of you the sense of belonging to the Church, which is a great family, and the joy of announcing the Gospel to all; that fraternity among yourselves might be so reinforced that you will be able to carry on your mission of service to the poor and the small, for whom Jesus has a special love."