August 11, 2024 - "Holy Father's Prayer Intention for August"

Pope Francis then mentions something that Pope Saint Paul VI once said, “Good politics is one of the highest forms of charity.” Pope Francis distinguishes good politics from politicking.  A person who practices good politics listens to what is really going on, that’s at the service of the poor, not the kind that is holed up in huge buildings with large hallways.  Good politics is concerned about the unemployed and understands what it is like for people who are not able to work. Pope Francis notes that if we look at politics in that way, is much more noble than it might otherwise appear.

 

Pope Francis concluded his remarks by urging everyone to be grateful for the many politicians who carry out their duties with a will to serve, not of power, who put all their efforts toward the common good.  He asked everyone to pray that political leaders be at the service of their own people, working for integral human development, and the common good, taking care of those who have lost their jobs, and giving priority to the poorest.

 

When politicians work for integral human development, they promote the good of every person and the good of the whole person.  They foster the cultural, economic, political, social, and spiritual development of the citizens they represent.

 

I want to conclude today’s column with a Prayer for Civic Leaders that is on the USCCB website:

 

God, our Father, you guide everything in wisdom and love. Accept the prayers we offer for our nation. In your goodness, watch over those in authority so that people everywhere may enjoy freedom, security, and peace.  We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

 

Until next week,

Fr. John