VATICAN - In the face of the world economic crisis, “connected to a crisis in structure, culture and values,” Benedict XVI reminds the Administrators of the Region of Lazio, the City of Rome, and the Province of Rome, that there must be a “joint desire to react, overcoming the divisions and organizing strategies.”

Vatican City (Agenzia Fides) - “Hopes and concerns” were the topics of discussion in the audience that the Holy Father Benedict XVI granted on January 12, to the Administrators of the Region of Lazio, the City of Rome, and the Province of Rome, as part of their traditional exchange of New Year's greetings. “There is no doubt", said the Pope in his remarks to them, "that the world community is passing though a time of serious economic crisis, yet this is also connected to a crisis in structure, culture and values. The difficult situation involving the world economy brings inevitable consequences to all areas, and hence also hits Rome, its province and the cities and towns of the Lazio region. Such an arduous challenge – which comes forth in your words as well - must be met by a joint desire to react, overcoming the divisions and organizing strategies that not only meet today's emergencies, but also seek to design an organic strategical plan for years to come, inspired by those principles and values that form a part of the ideal patrimony of Italy and, more specifically, that of Rome and Lazio. At difficult moments in their history, people are able to rediscover unity of intent and courage around the wise guidance of illuminated administrators whose fundamental concern must be the universal good.”
The Holy Father then mentioned that the Catholic communities “neither seek nor boast any privileges but want their spiritual and social mission to continue to garner appreciation and co-operation,” and highlighted that “although the diocesan Caritas, the parishes, and the Catholic associations spare no efforts to bring help to those in need, it is vital to create a synergy between all institutions in order to offer concrete answers to people's growing needs.” In particular, Benedict XVI said he thought of “families, especially those with small children who have the right to a tranquil future; and of the elderly, many of whom live alone and in difficult circumstances; of the housing crisis, of the lack of work and youth unemployment, of the difficult coexistence between different ethnic groups, and of the great question of immigration and nomads.”
On these issues, “the Church, in the light of her social doctrine, is called to make her own contribution, stimulating reflection and forming the consciences of the faithful and of all citizens of good will.” The Pontiff then explained how the public powers should guarantee the rights of their inhabitants, “making sure that they are clearly defined and that each one does his duty,” and as a mandatory priority, he mentioned “the formation in respect for laws, in assuming one's own responsibilities, in way of life that reduces individualism and the defense of one's own interests, so as to work together in favor of the universal good, keeping in mind the needs of the weakest in the population, not considering them a burden but rather a valuable resource.”
Continuing on with his address, the Pope highlighted the Church's commitment to education, expressing his gratitude for the collaboration established in “all that concerns the construction of new parish complexes in the neighborhoods that have been indicated,” trusting that in the future, this mutual support will continue. He thought especially of the children and youth, and the educational emergency “that today requires the widest range of collaboration possible.” He recalled that “in response to the nihilism that is increasingly pervading the world of the youth, the Church invites everyone to more seriously dedicate themselves to the youth, not to abandon them to their own devices and exposed to the school of 'malevolent teachers,' but to offer them serious initiatives that allow them to understand the value of live in a stable family built on marriage. Only in this manner can we offer them the possibility of looking ahead to their future with confidence.”
The last issue that the Holy Father addressed was healthcare, in which “the ecclesial community, heir to a long tradition of caring for the sick, continues amidst the many sacrifices to offer its work.” “In this year we have just begun, the Region of Lazio has given positive signs of seeking to help Catholic healthcare structures. I hope that, continuing on this path, this collaboration may be encouraged so that people may continue offering this valuable service that renowned institutions carry out with competence, professionality, and prudence in financial affairs, as well as with care towards the sick and their families.” (S.L.) (Agenzia Fides 13/1/2009)