Today, the parable of the rich man and the beggar helps us to look more deeply at the tasks and goals of the John Paul II Foundation, established forty years ago, in the first years of the Patron’s pontificate.
Let us emphasize in this context that we should not divide people into rich and beggars, although we are aware of the huge disparities that exist in today’s world, in which the gap between those who have everything and those who have nothing is widening. In a certain sense, every human being, even if he has nothing, can enrich another person with his humanity, his sensitivity and compassion, his goodness and wisdom of heart. In turn none of us is self-sufficient. We need others. A bank account full of money is not enough not to feel the overwhelming loneliness and emptiness of life. Only the experience of love and the manifestation of love for others give meaning to our lives and bring us closer to God, whose name is love.
Today we thank God for the providential decision which was taken years ago to create the Papal Foundation. It produced a lot of good frits and of various kinds. The Foundation has made and continues to contribute to the preservation and transmission of the legacy of John Paul II’s teaching and style of service. We are aware that the legacy of his pontificate will be important for future generations, so that in its light they can face the new challenges that the Church will always face, answering the profound questions of humanity.
An important form of the Foundation’s activity is the scholarship program for young people from Central and Eastern Europe. Concern for the deepened intellectual and spiritual formation of the young generation is the best investment in the future of societies that in the past experienced the devastating effects of totalitarian ideology and governments, and today are struggling with new challenges. We are referring to the drama of the Ukrainian people, who are heroically resisting Russian aggression. We firmly believe that from this extremely difficult experience Ukraine will be born even more united and solidary.
The Foundation’s activity helps not only those whom it directly supports. The Foundation – and this may seem paradoxical – also helps those who support it with their generosity and engage in the implementation of its goals in many Chapters and groups in different parts of the world. In this way, the Foundation gives them a sense of participation in the important work of the Church and the opportunity to do good in a wider scope, to go beyond the boundaries of the community in which they live. The Foundation wants to radiate, to reach with the word of truth to various environments, carrying a message of love and peace, in the spirit of its Patron – Saint John Paul II.
Vatican City, St. Peter’s Basilica, September 25, 2022
