P R A Y I N G W I T H T H E C H U R C H
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INTENTION : |
That the goods of the earth, given by God for all men, may be used wisely and according to criteria of justice and solidarity.
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Humanity is presently experiencing a worrisome paradox: side by side with ever new and positive advances in the areas of the economy, science and technology, we are witnessing a continuing increase of poverty. Today more than ever, there is a need for concrete, effective instruments for eliminating the potential for conflict between different cultural, ethnic and religious visions. There is a need to base international relations on respect for the person and on the cardinal principles of peaceful coexistence, fidelity to commitments undertaken and mutual acceptance by the peoples who make up the one human family.
Today, absolute poverty continues to plague too many of the world's people. Too many do not have access to basic social services, viz, clear water, safe sanitation, health care, education, shelter or security. Too many people are unemployed or underemployed. Too many children lack educational opportunities. Too many adults lack literacy skills and the chance for economic advancement and social integration. Too many people suffer from the devastation of disease. Too many have little hope for a brighter future.
We pray that a sense of responsibility and solidarity with the most disadvantaged will prevail among international negotiators on commerce setting aside narrow interests and the logic of power.
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