Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin, Archbishop of Newark, has reflected on the importance of recognizing Jesus in the faces of the poor. He emphasized the critical nature of understanding and addressing the multigenerational poverty affecting many families and individuals in New Jersey's four northern counties. Cardinal Tobin stated, “The needs of the poor take priority over the desires of the rich.”

Cardinal Tobin addressed the social conditions resulting from poverty, such as increased drug use, violence, and rising prison populations. He noted that those experiencing multigenerational poverty often lack the resources and opportunities needed to escape the poverty cycle. “Poor choices appear predetermined, and the vicious cycle of poverty remains unbroken,” he explained.

Cardinal Tobin encouraged Christians to show love and compassion towards the poor, echoing Christ's teachings. He called for acknowledgment of every human being's dignity, stressing that “all people should enjoy a quality of life commensurate with the demands of human dignity.”

Catholics in the Newark Archdiocese are actively involved in serving those in need through various Church entities. Cardinal Tobin praised this effort but stressed, “I also know that much more is needed.” He urged people to pray, strengthen families, advocate for economic vitality, education, healthcare, and support social ministries.

The Jubilee of the Poor was highlighted as a call to elevate efforts supporting the impoverished. In the U.S., the Catholic Campaign for Human Development plays a pivotal role in this mission, fostering community-driven initiatives to combat poverty, aligning with Catholic Social Teaching’s preferential option for the poor.

Pope Francis’s message for the Eighth World Day of the Poor, quoted in the reflection, implored believers to become “friends of the poor” by upholding solidarity and addressing poverty’s structural causes. He urged attention to small gestures of love and offered a plea for peace in current global conflicts.

Cardinal Tobin closed with a prayer for guidance and unity in lifting those in poverty.