In his inaugural address, Pope Francis issued some powerful statements. (Please be patient, this is a little long.)

“We must not be afraid of goodness or even tenderness.”

“Let us never forget that authentic power is service.” “Only those who serve with love are able to protect.”

The pope defined his idea of protection as “respecting each of God’s creatures and respecting the environment in which we live.”

He said:
“It means protecting people, showing loving concern for each and every person, especially children, the elderly, those in need, who are often the last we think about. It means caring for one another in our families: Husbands and wives first protect one another, and then, as parents, they care for their children, and children themselves, in time, protect their parents. It means building sincere friendships in which we protect one another in trust, respect, and goodness. In the end, everything has been entrusted to our protection, and all of us are responsible for it. Be protectors of God’s gifts!”

NBC Vatican analyst George Weigel said the pope’s message was that “one should never confuse simplicity and humility with weakness.”

So much of the pontiff's message parallels the mission of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul which is simply to help those in need. No forms to fill out … no lengthy wait times for assistance … but help to keep a roof over their heads, food, light, warmth - all with compassionate care.

Frieda Bertello
Executive Director
Society of St. Vincent de Paul Chicago