Fratelli Tutti: “Dark Clouds Over a Closed World”

In the first chapter of Fratelli Tutti,“Dark Clouds Over a Closed World,” Pope Francis contends that greed, combined with the technological ability to isolate ourselves in little circles of like-minded people, has led to the deterioration of any sense that all of us are facing the same problems:
The economicallysuccessful live in opulence, leaving too many in abject poverty.
In today’s world, the sense of belonging to a single human family is fading, and the dream of working together for justice and peace seems an outdated utopia. What reigns instead is a cool, comfortable, and globalized indifference born of deep disillusionment concealed behind a deceptive illusion: thinking that we are all-powerful, while failing to realize that we are all in the same boat.

Pope Francis is concerned that we have isolated ourselves and are filled with fear of others:
Outside the ancient town walls (i.e., our cultural safety structures – ed.) lies the abyss, the territory of the unknown, the wilderness. Whatever comes from there cannot be trusted, for it is unknown, unfamiliar, not part of the village. It is the territory of the “barbarian” from whom we must defend ourselves at all costs. As a result, new walls are erected for self-preservation, the outside world ceases to exist and leaves only “my” world, to the point that others, no longer considered human beings possess of an inalienable dignity, become only “them.”

While the Pope is specifically talking about reactions to migrants, this is an accurate description of white privilege. The psychology of the defense of an established class in the face of a perceived threat is universal.

Having defined the state of the world, the Pope in coming chapters will suggest paths of hope.

For your contemplation: Who in our society have we failed to fully include? What groups of people lack basic needs or opportunities for growth?

Volunteer Requests:
We need someone with a modest familiarity with computers to help Nicole run our Livestream equipment. This is crucial. At a time when we’re running only one Mass, and that only 20% full at best, the Livestream is our best way to keep our parish vibrant. If you are able to watch Mass on your computer, you are computer-savvy enough to help. Contact Nicole at nicoles@sttherese.cc.

Second, there is a vegetable garden behind the Parish Center that was begun by a school parent for a life-skills class at the school. Unfortunately, he has moved out of town, opening the opportunity for
someone to continue the garden to support St. Mary’s Food Bank. If you’re interested, contact me at jvrussell85@gmail.com. (Additional info on volunteer opportunities on p.8 of this Bulletin. —ed.)

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