We present some of the most important statements that remind us of the efforts made by Pope Francis, alongside the Holy Spirit, to spread the word of God worldwide.
"This system can no longer endure: the farmers cannot endure it, the workers cannot endure it, the communities cannot endure it, the people cannot endure it, the Earth cannot endure it. We need change" 07/09/2015
During the second World Meeting of Popular Movements in Bolivia, Pope Francis called for collective action to generate significant change in society. He emphasized how we are all responsible for caring for our shared world and working for social justice. This exhortation invites us to reflect on our responsibility as custodians of creation and promoters of a more just and solidary society.
"Behind so much pain and destruction, one can smell the stench... of the devil's dung" 07/09/2015
In this powerful message during the second World Meeting of Social Movements, the Pope pointed to the origin of many evils afflicting humanity. His message invites us to discern between what truly matters and the false promises of immediate gratification offered by a system centered on consumption. He reminds us of the importance of recognizing the dignity of each person as a child of God.
"Many times, in a systematic and structural way, your peoples have been misunderstood and excluded from society (...) Some have considered your values, culture, and traditions inferior. Others, intoxicated by power, money, and market laws, have dispossessed you of your lands or carried out actions that polluted them (...) Forgive me, brothers!" 02/16/2016
During his historic visit to indigenous communities in Chiapas, Mexico, the Holy Father acknowledged the historical injustices committed against native peoples. This act of humility and reconciliation reminds us of the importance of respecting cultural diversity and recognizing past errors as the first step toward true healing. The Pope invites us to build bridges of understanding and mutual respect with all cultures.
"A person who thinks only about building walls, wherever they may be, and not building bridges, is not Christian" 02/18/2016
With these words, Pope Francis addressed divisive political proposals, reminding us that the core of the Christian message is inclusion, not separation. This reflection invites us to examine our own attitudes toward those we consider "different" and to remember Jesus's example, who always reached out to the marginalized and excluded, showing that love for one's neighbor knows no borders.
"Who rules, then? Money. How does it rule? With the whip of fear, inequality, economic, social, cultural, and military violence that generates more and more violence." 11/01/2016
From the Vatican, Pope Francis pointed out how the idolatry of money can distort human values and generate systems of oppression. This warning invites us to reflect on our priorities and remember that material possessions are temporary. True value lies in cultivating authentic relationships and contributing to the common good from a perspective of faith and solidarity.
"Hope does not disappoint. Optimism disappoints, hope does not! Understood?" 12/07/2016
With this crucial distinction, Pope Francis explains the difference between simple superficial optimism and true Christian hope. Inspired by biblical teachings, he reminds us that Christian hope is anchored in divine promise and not in changing circumstances. This message encourages us to maintain faith even in difficult times, trusting in a greater plan that transcends our limited perspectives.
"Evil will not triumph forever, there is an end to pain." 12/14/2016
In recognizing the persistent suffering of many marginalized communities, the Pope offers a message of comfort and hope. This reflection reminds us that justice is a fundamental dimension of the Christian faith and that we are called not only to pray for those who suffer but also to act concretely to alleviate their pain. As believers, we have the responsibility to work for a world where the dignity of each person is respected.
"To speak of hope to those who are desperate, one needs to share their desperation; to dry a tear from the face of those who suffer, it is necessary to join our tears with theirs." 01/04/2017
In his reflections on Christian hope, Pope Francis emphasizes the importance of empathy and authentic solidarity. He reminds us that accompanying those who suffer involves not only offering words of comfort but also being truly present in their pain. This capacity to share others' suffering connects us with Christ's example, who did not fear becoming vulnerable to human pain.
"The pursuit of money, a professional career, or success should not be the foundation of life" 01/06/2018
During the celebration of the Epiphany, the Pope invites us to reflect on our true priorities. This message challenges us to evaluate what we really seek in our lives and whether we are pursuing goals that truly nourish our spirit. The invitation is to discover the true meaning of our existence beyond the superficial measures of success offered by contemporary society.
"It is up to you not to remain silent. If others remain silent, if we older people and leaders remain silent, if the world remains silent in the face of the corrupt and loses joy, I ask you: Will you cry out? Please, make up your minds before the stones cry out" 03/25/2018
In his message to young people during World Youth Day, Pope Francis exhorts them to be prophetic voices in a world that often remains silent in the face of injustice. Evoking Jesus's words about stones that would cry out if the disciples remained silent, the Pope trusts in the capacity of new generations to lead social change. This call reminds us of every Christian's responsibility to raise their voice against corruption and injustice.