THE POOR SHOULD BE THE FOCAL POINT OF POLITICAL ACTION

VATICAN CITY, JAN 18, 1999 (VIS) - The Holy Father this morning told members of Rome's Junta and Provincial Council they they were called to work so that both those who live in this province and those who are in contact with it "might look with hope at the present and the future."

The Pope offered some reflections "which may help your administrative and political work." To take on the overseeing of society, he said, "coordinated and efficient intervention is necessary, particularly to benefit those who live in difficult situations."

Having mentioned the "tragedy of old and new forms of poverty," John Paul II said that public structures must be marked by their concern for "those less fortunate brothers and sisters. ... Moreover, the so-called 'least' run the risk of being forgotten, becoming a greater extension of an opulent society, instead of being the focal point of decisions and general orientations. However, a network of initiatives is necessary which, thanks also to volunteer work, might have the aim of reinstating, favoring and integrating people and groups (into society)."

Regarding young people, the Pope highlighted that "they should be one of the priorities for political action. Young generations, sometimes even without being aware of it, ask for culture, ideals and authentic spirituality, as an antidote to that void in values by which they feel threatened. Families, schools, dioceses and parishes are called ... to pool their resources so as to offer youth a society and a future of hope."

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