Pope Francis offers words of comfort and encouragement to Spain's Romani community, recognizing their history of marginalization while emphasizing God's constant presence. He calls for a more inclusive Church and encourages Romani people to embrace their faith and cultural heritage.
Pope Francis has assured the Romani people that God has not abandoned them, despite the societal and even church-related hardships they have faced throughout history. In a message to Spain 's Romani community, traditionally known as 'gypsies,' the Pope acknowledged the pain of marginalization and rejection the community has endured. However, he emphasized their ability to discover God's presence even in the darkest moments.
'God is a pilgrim in history with humanity and has become a nomad with the Romani people,' the Pope stated in his message marking 600 years of the Romani community's presence in Spain. The Pope praised Spain and the Spanish Church for their efforts towards inclusivity, but stressed that more work is needed to overcome prejudices and address the challenges Romani people continue to face. These include families struggling to support their children, young people encountering difficulties in education and employment, and discrimination against women. Calling for a welcoming Church, Pope Francis envisioned a space where 'we can all feel at home,' where Romani people could 'grow in your Christian faith without renouncing the best values of your culture.' He encouraged the community to walk faithfully with their local bishops and church communities, emphasizing that 'in the church the power of the Gospel will purify and enhance your values and culture.' Drawing upon the recent Synod of Bishops on synodality, where the Church rediscovered the importance of walking together, the Pope urged the Romani people to participate actively in this journey.Pope Francis recognized the Romani people's 'prophetic and countercultural' qualities that enrich the Church. He highlighted their appreciation for the elderly and family, care for creation, emphasis on joy, and understanding of work as a means of living rather than mere accumulation. He urged them to be 'pilgrims of hope' for those who have lost the joy of living, spreading the 'joy of living the Christian faith, hope and love,' especially to young people struggling to connect with God within and outside the Catholic Church. The Pope emphasized the Church's commitment to welcoming those who have drifted away from their faith, offering them friendship and dialogue, transcending differences and fostering fraternity. He recalled the examples of faith left by two Spanish Romani who have been beatified: Blessed Ceferino Giménez Malla, martyred during the Spanish Civil War, and Blessed Emilia Fernández Rodríguez, both serving as inspiring reminders of the importance of prayer, encountering God, and unwavering faith in the face of adversity
Pope Francis Romani People Catholic Church Inclusivity Faith Hope Joy Synod Of Bishops Spain Blessed Ceferino Giménez Malla Blessed Emilia Fernández Rodríguez
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