Pope Leo XIV Addresses Centesimus Annus Foundation on Social Doctrine, Emphasizes Dialogue and the Poor
Pope Leo XIV addressed the Centesimus Annus Pro Pontifice Foundation, focusing on Catholic social teaching. He emphasized the importance of critical thinking, dialogue, and listening to the poor in addressing global challenges. The Pope highlighted the role of the Church's social doctrine in overcoming polarization and promoting peace. He also noted the current era as a 'polycrisis' marked by war, climate issues, and inequality. The Pope encouraged the foundation to build bridges and give voice to the poor.
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Pope Leo XIV addressed the Centesimus Annus Pro Pontifice Foundation on May 17, 2025, focusing on the theme "Overcoming Polarizations and Rebuilding Global Governance: The Ethical Foundations" 1 2 4. The Pope emphasized the importance of Catholic Social Teaching (CST) as a means to promote peace and dialogue in a world facing numerous challenges 1 2 5. He called for building bridges through dialogue and encounter, uniting people in peace 1 6.
Pope Leo XIV stressed the necessity of dialogue and encounter, particularly with the poor, as essential components of the Church's mission 1 2 5. He urged the members of the Centesimus Annus Foundation to listen to the voices of the poor, recognizing them as a treasure for the Church and humanity 1 5 6. The Pope noted that the perspectives of the poor are often disregarded but are vital for seeing the world through God's eyes 1 5. He advocated for recognizing the poor as active participants in carrying forward and putting into practice the Church’s social doctrine 1 5.
The Pope acknowledged the "polycrisis" of the modern age, marked by wars, climate change, growing inequalities, and other pressing issues 1 2 5. He stated that CST is called to provide insights that facilitate dialogue between science and conscience, contributing to understanding, hope, and peace 1 2. Pope Leo XIV emphasized that the way problems are approached, guided by ethical principles and openness to God's grace, is more important than immediate solutions 2 5. He noted that CST encourages genuine engagement with social issues without claiming a monopoly on truth 2 5.
Pope Leo XIV cautioned against indoctrination, which he described as immoral because it stifles critical judgment and undermines freedom of conscience 1 2 5. He stressed the importance of training others in critical thinking, especially in the context of the digital revolution and the spread of fake news 1 2 6. The Pope advocated for a "serious, serene, and rigorous discourse" that teaches how to approach problems and people, helping to make prudent judgments 1 2 5. He clarified that doctrine, in the context of CST, should be understood as a product of research, discussion, and the pursuit of truth 1 2.
Pope Leo XIV challenged the Centesimus Annus Foundation to actively and creatively participate in the discernment process, contributing to the development of CST in an age of significant social changes 2 6. He urged the Foundation to listen to everyone and engage in dialogue with all, recognizing the widespread thirst for justice and spirituality, especially among young people and the marginalized 1 2 5. The Pope called on the Foundation to help develop the Church’s Social Doctrine together with the “people of God" 6.
How does Catholic Social Teaching address global polarization?
Okay, I will provide a summary of Pope Leo XIV's address to the Centesimus Annus Foundation, focusing on social doctrine, dialogue, and the poor.
Here's the outline:
In an address to the Centesimus Annus Foundation, Pope Leo XIV underscored the significance of the Church's social doctrine, the necessity of dialogue, and the preferential option for the poor, all within the framework of contemporary societal challenges.
The Church's social doctrine serves as a moral compass, offering principles that guide efforts to build a just and equitable society . This doctrine is not a rigid ideology but a set of principles that evolve while remaining rooted in the Gospel and natural law . Pope John Paul II highlighted the continuity of the Church's social Magisterium, emphasizing principles such as solidarity and the civilization of love . The Church tirelessly sets forth these moral principles in her social doctrine, which also serves to form consciences, indicating the best way to strengthen the spiritual and civil foundations of society .
Dialogue is essential for addressing complex social issues. It involves open communication, mutual respect, and a willingness to understand different perspectives. By fostering dialogue, the Church seeks to create spaces for encounter and collaboration, enabling people of diverse backgrounds to work together for the common good.
A central theme in the Church's social teaching is the preferential option for the poor . This principle, rooted in the Gospel, calls for a special love and concern for those who are marginalized and vulnerable . Pope John Paul II emphasized that the Church has a particular duty towards the poor, neglected, marginalized, and suffering . This option for the poor is not limited to material assistance but includes defending their rights and promoting their integral development . The goods of this world are originally meant for all, and private property has a social function, based on the principle of the universal destination of goods .
Pope Leo XIV's address to the Centesimus Annus Foundation reinforces the Church's commitment to social justice through its doctrine, the promotion of dialogue, and a focus on the poor. These elements provide a framework for addressing the challenges of our time and building a more just and compassionate world.