BANGKOK (RVA News/LiCAS News): “Together, we can be the answer to the cries of our world. We can be the change that brings healing to the earth and dignity to the poor,” said Archbishop Peter Wells, apostolic nuncio to Thailand and Cambodia and apostolic delegate to Laos, during the opening Mass of the Caritas Asia 2024 Regional Conference and Partners’ Forum in Bangkok, Thailand, on June 11, RVA News reported.
The conference, themed “Responding to the cry of the poor and the cry of the Earth for resilient and inclusive communities,” brought together representatives from 25 member organisations across Central, East, South, and Southeast Asia, focused on fostering resilient and inclusive communities.
LiCAS News reported Archbishop Wells as pointing out the urgency of the social and environmental issues facing the world, saying, “The cries of the poor and the groans of the Earth are not distant echoes, but urgent pleas that demand a response.”
Pollution scars its beauty, climate change disrupts its balance, and ecosystems teeter on the brink of collapse.
Archbishop Wells
The archbishop said, “Pollution scars its beauty, climate change disrupts its balance, and ecosystems teeter on the brink of collapse.” He said that the poorest, often overlooked, are disproportionately affected, and “their voices pierce the veil of indifference.”
Archbishop Isao Kikuchi, the head of Caritas Internationalis, called on social action workers to embrace partnership, collaboration, synergy, and cooperation.
“It is only through our collective efforts that we can effectively respond to the cries of the earth and the poor,” Archbishop Kichuchi said, LiCAS News reported.
The archbishop, who is also the secretary general of the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences, said that Caritas organisations in Asia and across the globe have “achieved significant growth and successes through our collaborative efforts.”
Father Edwin Gariguez, former executive secretary at Caritas Philippines; Alistair Dutton, secretary general of Caritas Internationalis; Father Pairat Sriprasert, the local host; and Dr. Benedict Alo D. Rozario, president of Caritas Asia, also addressed the gathering, according to RVA News.
Each highlighted the critical role of Caritas in promoting social justice, environmental stewardship, and the dignity of all people.
It is only through our collective efforts that we can effectively respond to the cries of the earth and the poor
Archbishop Kikuchi
Recently, Pope Francis reinforced the important role of Caritas in the mission of the Catholic Church, describing it as “a beacon of hope and a testament to the Church’s commitment to justice and care for those on the margins.”
The conference sought to foster innovation and collaboration, and shape strategic discussions focused on creating solutions to social and environmental concerns.
Archbishop Kikuchi urged participants to leverage their diverse skills and experiences, saying, “Let us build pathways that are both sustainable and inclusive, ensuring that no individual is left behind as we advance towards resilience.”
He encouraged everyone to work together responsibly and proactively in addressing the needs of the earth and those in poverty.
