Pope Francis issued his latest encyclical “Fratelli Tutti” on 10/3/2020 on the theme of fraternity and social friendship. There are eight chapters in this encyclical. Fr. Anthony summarizes below the sixth chapter entitled “Dialog and Friendship in Society.”
Fr. Anthony Armstrong, O.Carm.
If we want to encounter others we have to dialogue (§198). Dialogue is about being open to the other, to giving and receiving (§199). Dialogue is not simply the exchange of opinions (§200). Dialogue helps us appreciate the views of others even if we do not agree with those views (§203). In today’s globalized world, the internet, in particular, offers immense possibilities for encounter and solidarity (§205).
Society must respect the truth of our human dignity and submit to that truth (§207). That universal truth should underpin our decisions and laws (§208). All people, whether rich or poor, are subject to this universal truth (§209). These universal values transcend our concrete situations and remain non-negotiable (§211). The dignity of others is to be respected in all circumstances because human beings possess an intrinsic worth superior to [things] (§213). It is God who gives those principles their solid foundation (§214). The image of a polyhedron can signify a society where differences coexist, complementing, enriching and reciprocally illuminating one another (§215).
Integrating differences is a difficult and slow process (§217). All this calls for the ability to recognize other people’s right to be themselves and to be different (§218). We need to respect and acknowledge the different worldviews and cultures that coexist in society (§219). This means that some things may have to be renounced for the common good; i.e. my desires are less important than your needs (§221). We need to choose to cultivate kindness (§222). Saint Paul describes kindness as a fruit of the Holy Spirit. The Greek word describes an attitude that is gentle and supportive (§223). Kindness ought to be cultivated precisely because it entails esteem and respect for others (§224).