Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, D.D. Bishop | Archdiocese of Louisville

Christians are urged to find ways to address inequality and promote solidarity, according to Pope Francis. Speaking to a group of church organizers, he emphasized the importance of mending the social fabric by addressing disparities. "The social fabric must be reestablished by repairing inequalities," he said, adding that no one should remain indifferent to others' suffering.

Pope Francis met with participants from an international gathering of "field hospital" churches in Rome on November 4. These churches aim to serve communities innovatively and compassionately. The meeting was their third encounter, involving organizers from countries such as Spain, Italy, Mexico, Argentina, and Jordan.

One notable initiative is San Antón in Madrid, which reopened after a decade-long closure to provide shelter for homeless individuals. Similar efforts have been undertaken by churches in other nations, supporting refugees and vulnerable families.

Through their ministry, Pope Francis noted that the church organizers highlight the issue of inequality between rich and poor or citizens and foreigners. He stated this disparity is not aligned with God's vision for humanity and should be addressed through justice.

He encouraged them to instill hope among those they serve, including homeless people, refugees, vulnerable families, war victims, or marginalized individuals. Despite challenges resembling a "dead end," the pope advised offering reassurance that Christian hope surpasses any situation.

Acknowledging the difficulty of conveying this message to war victims, he stressed that hope is rooted in faith rather than human endeavors. Pope Francis also highlighted the need to welcome migrants in Spain and Italy due to declining birth rates. He commended Christians in southern regions who have embraced Muslim migrants as an opportunity to practice Gospel teachings through compassionate actions.

He reminded organizers that caring for society's most vulnerable is a "privilege," as it allows them to connect with Christ's presence. Evangelization becomes tangible when helping those in need rather than being an abstract ideology or indoctrination.

Pope Francis encouraged demonstrating Christian hospitality through actions more than words and asked organizers to continue recognizing Christ's face in every vulnerable person they assist, regardless of their faith.