Pope Francis recently spoke out against the alarming trend of discarding the sick in the name of efficiency and strength. He emphasized that this mentality is not only morally wrong but also goes against the values of compassion and tenderness that are at the heart of the Christian faith. The Pope’s words came during an audience with members of the Italian Association against Leukaemia-Lymphoma and Myeloma (AIl), which is celebrating its 55th anniversary.
The Pope praised the association’s work in promoting research and providing care to those suffering from diseases, and he thanked the thousands of volunteers who make this work possible. He also highlighted the importance of proximity and compassion in caring for the sick, saying that “proximity is one of God’s qualities: close, compassionate, and tender.” The Pope emphasized that the sick are often marginalized and discarded in today’s society, and that this is a defeat for humanity.
Pope Francis also spoke about the need to put the sick person back at the center of our attention, with their history, family relationships, and friendships. He emphasized that even in the darkest moments, there is always hope, and that this hope is brought by people who care for the sick with friendship, closeness, and listening. The Pope encouraged everyone to look to Christmas as a time of hope and tenderness, and to remember that God himself is the first to give himself in love. Finally, the Pope thanked the association for their work and encouraged them to continue being a tangible sign of God’s love in the world.