Pope Francis' Message for 52nd World Day of Peace

Source: Vatican Media

The Vatican has issued Pope Francis' Message for the 52nd World Day of Peace, which takes place on 1 January 2019.

In his message the Pope reflects on the role of "good politics at the service of peace." Those who hold political office, he says, must exercise their office in service to others, basing their work on the foundation of charity and human virtues.

At the same time, Pope Francis warns of the vices that can afflict politics, including corruption, xenophobia, racism, lack of concern for the environment, and contempt for exiles.

"When the exercise of political power aims only at protecting the interests of a few privileged individuals, the future is compromised and young people can be tempted to lose confidence," the Pope writes. He encourages politics to "foster the talents of young people and their aspirations" in order to promote peace, noting that "Everyone can contribute his or her stone to help build the common home."

The Holy Father repudiates a politics of intimidation and fear, and denounces "the uncontrolled proliferation of arms." Peace, he insists, is based on respect for each person… respect for the law and the common good, on respect for the environment" as well as "the moral tradition inherited from past generations."

In conclusion, Pope Francis says that peace "is the fruit of a great political project grounded in the mutual responsibility and interdependence of human beings." But, he says, "it is also a challenge that demands to be taken up ever anew" - a challenge that "entails a conversion of heart and soul."

Read the full text of Pope Francis' Message for the Celebration of the 52nd World Day of Peace HERE: