Pope encourages French politicians in their commitment to common good.

By Robin Gomes

Pope Francis on Monday encouraged French politicians in their commitment to the common good by creating a more just, human and fraternal society, keeping in mind especially the needs of migrants and refugees.   

Building bridges between people

Meeting some 300 politicians, parliamentarians and their bishops from the Marseilles episcopal province, the Pope urged them to build bridges between people who find themselves in different social, economic, cultural and religious conditions, as well as between generations.   

He also expressed the Church’s appreciation for a political commitment that is inspired by the desire to create favourable conditions for people to live together, respecting their differences and being attentive to those in precarious situations, especially the most fragile.

Social inequality – migrants, refugees

In trying to serve the common good, the Pope urged the politicians never to resign themselves to “social inequality, which he said is at the root of the ills of society."  Rather, they should "promote an integral ecological conversion that is at the service of preserving our common home.”  The Holy Father particularly thought about migrants and refugees who, he said, have “fled their countries because of war, poverty and violence."