“Charity in Truth”, as I mentioned before, seems prophetic to me, since it was written in 2009. As I continue to read Pope Benedict XVI’s words today I am again so grateful for the Holy Spirit at work in the Church!
- Global interconnectedness has led to the emergence of a new political power, that of consumers and their associations. This is a phenomenon that needs to be further explored, as it contains positive elements to be encouraged as well as excesses to be avoided. It is good for people to realize that purchasing is always a moral — and not simply economic — act. Hence the consumer has a specific social responsibility, which goes hand-in- hand with the social responsibility of the enterprise. Consumers should be continually educated regarding their daily role, which can be exercised with respect for moral principles without diminishing the intrinsic economic rationality of the act of purchasing. In the retail industry, particularly at times like the present when purchasing power has diminished and people must live more frugally, it is necessary to explore other paths: for example, forms of cooperative purchasing like the consumer cooperatives that have been in operation since the nineteenth century, partly through the initiative of Catholics. In addition, it can be helpful to promote new ways of marketing products from deprived areas of the world, so as to guarantee their producers a decent return. However, certain conditions need to be met: the market should be genuinely transparent; the producers, as well as increasing their profit margins, should also receive improved formation in professional skills and technology; and finally, trade of this kind must not become hostage to partisan ideologies. A more incisive role for consumers, as long as they themselves are not manipulated by associations that do not truly represent them, is a desirable element for building economic democracy.
Before reading this encyclical, I had little sense of how our spirituality impacts everything we do. Finances can be tools for good as well as evil – depending on the intention of the heart, How important then that we remain in Christ, helping us to know Him as our Way, our Truth, and our Life!
Come Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of Your Faithful. Kindle in us the Fire of Your Love, and Truth.
Jesus, we trust in You! Enable us by the power of your Holy Spirit to love as You have loved us. May the Light of Your Truth shine through Your Church!
Mary, Mother of the Church, pray for us.
