Pope Francis Decries Arms Investment as “Madness,” Calls for Focus on Common Good
On Saturday, january 18, 2025, Pope Francis received a 60-member delegation from the Catholic Foundation, a Verona-based organization established in 2006. During the meeting at the Vatican, the Pope delivered a powerful message, criticizing the prioritization of arms production over the promotion of the common good.
“It is a kind of madness that some countries are investing in arms production instead of promoting the common good,” the Pope declared. He emphasized that wealth, when used wisely, can transform societies, but when misdirected, it becomes a burden. “When money is invested for good, it does more good. Otherwise, it ages and weighs down the heart, making it hard and deaf to the voice of the poor,” he added.
The Catholic Foundation, active across various sectors of society, has been a beacon of hope for those in need, aligning its efforts with the social teachings of the Church.The Pope praised the foundation’s work, stating, “By fostering the common good, we will be improving the relationships in our society.”
However, he did not shy away from addressing the darker side of global priorities. “Some countries get more income by investing in weapons factories and thus investing in killing, which is madness,” he said, urging nations to reconsider their focus.
As the world enters the Jubilee Year of Hope, the Pope reminded his audience of their role as stewards of the Earth. “Traveling the world like pilgrims reminds us that we are not masters of the world, but guardians,” he said. “We are all called to protect the common house that the Lord has entrusted to us.”
He elaborated on this duty, stating, “It means to nurture and protect it according to a wise and honorable law, and the clever management of the vivaksha house of the word ‘economy.’”
| Key Points from Pope Francis’ Address |
|——————————————-|
| Date of Address | January 18, 2025 |
| Delegation | 60-member Catholic Foundation |
| Foundation Location | Verona, Italy |
| Core Message | Criticized arms investment, urged focus on common good |
| Jubilee Year | Year of Hope |
| Call to Action | Protect and nurture the Earth as guardians |
The Pope’s words resonate deeply in a world grappling with conflict and inequality. His call to prioritize the common good over profit-driven ventures serves as a reminder of the values that bind humanity together.
As the Catholic Foundation continues its mission, the Pope’s message underscores the importance of aligning actions with the principles of compassion and stewardship. Let us heed his call and work towards a world where wealth serves humanity, not destruction.
Pope Francis’ Call for Disarmament and Focus on the Common Good: An Expert Interview
In a world increasingly marred by conflict and inequality, Pope Francis has issued a powerful appeal for disarmament and the prioritization of the common good. To delve deeper into the implications of his message, we sat down with Dr. Elena Moretti, a renowned expert in global ethics and Catholic social teaching, to discuss the Pope’s recent address and its relevance in today’s context.
Senior Editor (SE): Dr.Moretti, thank you for joining us today. Pope Francis recently described the investment in arms production as “madness.” What do you think lies at the heart of this statement?
Dr. Elena Moretti (EM): Thank you for having me.The Pope’s words are a stark reminder of the moral and ethical dilemmas we face in the modern world. At its core,his statement critiques the prioritization of profit and power over human life and dignity.Investing in arms production perpetuates cycles of violence and diverts resources away from initiatives that could foster peace, development, and the well-being of communities. It’s a call to rethink our values and priorities.
SE: Pope Francis also emphasized the importance of the common good. How can nations and individuals align with this principle amidst global conflicts?
EM: The common good is a foundational principle in catholic social teaching,emphasizing that the well-being of all people should be the ultimate goal of any society. Nations can align with this by redirecting resources from military spending to areas like education, healthcare, and sustainable development.On an individual level, it’s about fostering empathy, advocating for justice, and supporting initiatives that uplift the marginalized. The Pope’s message is a reminder that true progress is measured not by power or wealth, but by how we care for the most vulnerable.
SE: The Pope’s address coincided with the Jubilee Year of Hope. How does this theme connect to his call for disarmament and stewardship of the Earth?
EM: The Jubilee Year of Hope is a powerful metaphor for renewal and conversion. In this context, the pope’s call for disarmament is an invitation to hope for a future free from the scourge of war and violence. His emphasis on stewardship underscores our shared responsibility to protect the Earth and its resources for future generations. It’s a message of hope that challenges us to act with compassion and foresight, recognizing that our actions today shape the world of tomorrow.
SE: what practical steps can organizations like the Catholic Foundation take to advance the Pope’s vision?
EM: Organizations like the Catholic Foundation play a crucial role in translating the Pope’s vision into action.They can continue their work in areas such as poverty alleviation, education, and community development, ensuring their efforts align with the principles of the common good.Additionally, they can advocate for policy changes that prioritize peace and sustainability. By fostering collaboration and inspiring others to join their mission, they can amplify the Pope’s message and create a ripple effect of positive change.
SE: dr. Moretti, thank you for your insightful perspectives. It’s clear that Pope Francis’ message is both a challenge and a call to action for all of us.
EM: Thank you. Indeed, the Pope’s words are a timely reminder of our collective responsibility to build a world rooted in justice, peace, and hope.
