Pope urges love and humility in governors; involvement in politics for citizens

September 16, 2013 - Humility and love are indispensable for those who govern, while citizens, especially if they are Catholics, cannot be indifferent to politics. The Pope’s remarks came in his homily at Mass, Monday morning, at the Casa Santa Marta residence in the Vatican. Taking his cue from the day’s Gospel reading about the centurion humbly pleading for the healing of his servant, the Pope spoke about the ‘service of authority’. A governor who does not love his or her people cannot govern, the Pope said. At most he or she can discipline people, put a bit of order, but not govern. Recalling Kind David who humbly pleaded with God to punish him but not his people, the Pope pointed to two important virtues of those who rule – love for the people and humility. “Every man and woman, who assumes the service of governing,” the Pope said, “must ask these two questions: ‘Do I love my people in order to serve them better?’ and “Am I humble to listen to others, various opinions in order to choose the best path?’ Citing St. Paul’s letter to Timothy urging prayers for rulers, the Pope said citizens cannot be indifferent to politics. They should do their best by participating in politics so that the government does its best. Citing the social teaching of the Catholic Church Pope Francis said politics is one of the highest forms of charity, because it is serving the common good. Instead of washing the hands, each one must contribute something, the Pope said. A good Catholic, the Pope explained, meddles in politics, offering the best of himself, so that those who govern can govern. A Christian who does not pray for those who govern is not a good Christian, the Pope said, adding, we should pray also for the conversion of bad rulers.