The great social, political and cultural transformations of our times are there for all to see.
They are bringing out, on the one hand, social fragmentation fueled by individualism and the inability to communicate, on the other hand, a widespread vitality on the part of non-profit associations, companies and administrations that demonstrate greater sensitivity to making a contribution to the common good.
The synodal experiences of recent years have also highlighted the commitment of many Catholics and the desire to network to overcome the contradictions laid bare by modernity and the processes of globalization and financial “engineering”.
The bishops, aware of the fact that the country is called to address important issues, including the promotion and defense of dignified work, the reduction of inequalities, and the protection of the environment, through a CEI statement, underline the need for active listening and the responsible protagonism of the community to redefine the future of Italy, also in relation to the global scenario and the challenges that arise from it. We need people who get involved and collaborate to regenerate living spaces, even the most marginal and tired, reinforcing the ability to choose democratically.
Precisely to encourage reflection on new forms of participation and the development of common tools to build and grow alliances, the Permanent Council has chosen to dedicate the 50th Social Week of Catholics in Italy under the theme “At the heart of democracy”. The initiative will take place from tomorrow, July 3rd until July 7th next Triestea symbolic city, a frontier city due to the presence of multiple cultures, ethnic groups and religious confessions, rich in symbolic places that have marked the troubled path of the country towards freedom, unity and democracy. The diocese of Lecce will be present with its three delegates, two of whom are very young, who will have the opportunity to bring the needs of the territory and illustrate the virtuous paths undertaken by our communities also thanks to the synodal initiatives.
Faced with the new that is advancing, we must not lose sight of the foundations and Christian values, the only true reference for the growth of a territory and a community in compliance with the principle of the common good.
*director of the diocesan office for social and labor pastoral care
