Economic Crisis Seen as Time to Build Hope

(March 12, 2009) The present economic crisis can be a moment to unite oneself to the cross of Christ, suggested the president of the Pontifical Council for Culture. Archbishop Gianfranco Ravasi said this Monday in his address on "The Challenges of the Crisis: Fears and Hopes," delivered in the Basilica of St. John Lateran, as part of the program called "Dialogues in the Cathedral," organized by the Diocese of Rome. The event was presided over by Cardinal Agostino Vallini, vicar general of the diocese of Rome. Sociologist Giuseppe de Rita, president of Le Monnier and former president of the National Council of the Economy of Work, also addressed the gathering. Archbishop Ravasi pointed out how the economic crisis touches the lives and feelings of people that change like a "chromatic specter" that goes "from icy purple to red hot." He noted that when man stays in the purple hue, it would seem that "there is no return; there will be no other morning." The prelate noted that sometimes in life "it is necessary that our faith know the purple of desperation," so that the virtue of hope is tested. He concluded his address by assuring those present that "hope is the littlest sister of faith and charity," and that "to allow oneself to be dragged down is the greatest temptation." He said, "You, Christians, must be ready to respond."