Pope Francis Condemns Arms Investments, Calls It 'Madness'

Vatican, January 20, 2025: Pope Francis reaffirmed the ethical responsibility of using financial resources for the betterment of humanity while addressing a delegation from the Catholic Foundation of Verona, part of Generali Italia insurance company, on Saturday at the Vatican. He emphasized the importance of directing wealth toward initiatives that support the vulnerable and uphold the Church's social doctrine, contrasting this with the "madness" of investing in arms manufacturing, which profits from destruction and death.

The Pope reminded the delegation, whose Foundation supports non-profit organizations and social ventures for local communities, of humanity’s role as stewards rather than owners of the Earth. Highlighting the etymology of "economy" as the wise management of a household (oikos in Greek), he called for financial stewardship that prioritizes environmental and social well-being. He praised the Foundation's commitment to solidarity, particularly its collaboration with the Diocese of Verona to aid families and young people, commending this work as a reflection of their Catholic identity.

Reflecting on the moral use of financial resources, Pope Francis condemned the global trend of prioritizing investments in arms industries, describing it as "madness" that undermines human dignity. He warned that wealth hoarded or misused becomes a burden, hardening hearts to the cries of the poor, who are the first victims of selfishness. Instead, he urged placing wealth at the service of the common good to strengthen social bonds and build a more just society.

Concluding his address, Pope Francis encouraged the Foundation members to trust in God’s Providence and continue their mission of fostering justice, happiness, and peace. He called on them to "build a future rooted in justice," reminding them that by promoting human dignity, they contribute to a more unified and compassionate world.

Courtesy: Vatican News