In the gardens of Castel Gandolfo, the papal summer residence, a profound message of hospitality and an open church was articulated on Saturday. The Center for Higher Education, Laudato Si’, hosted a day of encounter at the Borgo Laudato Si’, welcoming two hundred individuals in difficult life situations, including thirty-five children. This gathering not only emphasized the importance of the marginalized but also highlighted the church’s commitment to inclusivity and care for those in need.
A Meaningful Gathering with the Pope
The event commenced with a solemn mass, jointly celebrated by Cardinal Fabio Baggio, General Director of the Center, and Archbishop de San Martín, Prefect of the Dicastery for Charity. Following the mass, attendees participated in a guided tour of the area and shared a communal meal with Pope Leo XIV. This gathering encapsulated the spirit of community, turning a meal into an expression of unity and love.
Cardinal Baggio’s Insight: The Weakest as the Heart of the Church
In his opening address, Cardinal Baggio emphasized the significant role of the Pope’s presence, marking the day as a pivotal moment for the church. He declared that the focus should not only be on nature but also on humanity: “The weakest are the true treasure and the beating heart of the Church.” He reminded the audience that nature should never supersede the importance of human dignity. A true ecology must consider those affected at the margins of society. Referencing the Christian tradition, he noted that the face of Christ is sacramentally revealed in the countenance of the weak and marginalized. “If you do not find Christ at the door of the church, you will not find him in the chalice of the altar,” he asserted, reminding everyone of the church’s duty to uphold the dignity of every individual.
Gratitude from the Diocese of Rome
Cardinal Baldassare Reina, the Pope’s Vicar for the Diocese of Rome and Archpriest of the Lateran Basilica, expressed gratitude on behalf of the diocese during his speech. He underscored that the Church in the Italian capital strives daily to be a “Church in movement,” actively seeking out the peripheries of existence to care for the lonely and suffering. Parishes, charities, soup kitchens, shelters, and countless volunteers usually work away from the spotlight, embodying the spirit of Christ washing the feet of His disciples. The Borgo Laudato Si’ emerges as a model where the preservation of creation and the promotion of human dignity go hand in hand, enabling the church to recognize the cries of the earth and the cries of the poor as a single, united call for action.
Archbishop Marín de San Martín: A Celebration of Creation
The third address was delivered by Archbishop Marín de San Martín, who welcomed the Pope and all attendees. He described the venue as a house that reminds us of the beauty of creation and the interconnectedness of the human family. He highlighted that, in a culture prone to marginalizing the poor, migrants, and the elderly, this place aims to be a beacon of hope. The communal meal continues the tradition of Jesus, turning the table into a place of reconciliation. The Center for Higher Education endeavors to impart a fresh perspective that acknowledges the inviolable dignity of every person. The Pope’s presence underscores the essence of the Church as a home for all, where every individual finds their place at the same table.
In conclusion, events like this reinforce the Church’s mission, showcasing that the marginalized are at its heart, reminding us all of our collective responsibility to promote dignity and offer compassion to those in need.
