VATICAN CITY – Laws and government policies should not make economic inequality worse; rather they should help people live more decent lives, Pope Benedict XVI told diplomats.
“The quality of human relationships and the sharing of resources are the foundation of society, allowing everyone to have a role and to live in dignity in accordance with their aspirations,” he said.
The pope spoke on May 4 to five new ambassadors to the Vatican, who were presenting their credentials.
The new ambassadors from Ireland, Ethiopia, Armenia, Malaysia and Fiji will not be residing in Rome.
In a speech to the group, the pope said today’s modern means of communication make it very quick and easy to know what is happening around world – both good and bad.
Being much more aware of people’s material and spiritual suffering should lead to a new call to action “to respond, with justice and solidarity, to anything that threatens humanity, society and the environment,” he said.
Armed conflict, famine, pandemics and people flocking to cities have exacerbated both old and new forms of poverty, and the global economic crisis has caused an increasing number of families to face growing financial insecurity, he said.
When poverty and extreme wealth exist side-by-side in society, it gives rise to a sense of injustice, which can spark rebellion, he said.
“It is, therefore, appropriate that nations ensure that social laws do not worsen inequalities,” but help people to live decently, he said.
True human development respects human dignity and lets people take control of their lives, he said. Initiatives using micro-credit or “equitable partnerships,” for example, “show that it is possible to harmonise economic goals with social needs, democratic governance and respect for nature.”
Pope Benedict said the problem of spiritual poverty also must be addressed. He called on nations to guarantee religious liberty and safeguard their cultural and religious heritage. - CNS