Addressing some 400 soldiers from the Italian army’s logistics group, Pope Francis highlighted their dedicated work in humanitarian emergencies, which symbolizes Christ’s mission to serve those in need and the bravery of his patron Saint Christopher.
Vatican News
VATICAN CITY, Thursday, November 7, 2024 (REI): Pope Francis met this Thursday with officers and soldiers of the transport and material unit of the Italian Army, which celebrates the 70th anniversary of the declaration of Saint Christopher as patron saint in 1954. .
courage and service
Welcoming him in the Vatican’s Clementine Auditorium, Pope Francis praised military personnel for choosing this holy martyr as a symbol of bravery and service, and commented on the importance of basing his vocation on strong moral and spiritual values, especially since his work it often involves saving and supporting people’s lives.
He stressed that having Saint Christopher as a patron is a reminder of the need for divine guidance and grace in one’s difficult duties and is a commitment to focus on human dignity, protect the vulnerable and act selflessly, whether in times of peace , during natural disasters. or in the midst of health crises.
“Honoring our Patron means knowing that we are not omnipotent, that not everything is in our hands and that we need God’s blessing,” the Pope said.
Serving in peacebuilding missions, natural disasters and health crises.
The Pope praised the dedicated service of the Italian military in emergencies such as earthquakes, floods and the COVID-19 pandemic, including creating essential infrastructure, providing logistical support and distributing vital resources such as vaccines.
He also praised their international peacekeeping efforts, in which they transport materials for military and humanitarian purposes.
‘Service provides an honor’
“The precise, orderly and continuous execution of all these activities has a specific name: service,” the Pope said. “It implies being available for the common good, not wasting efforts and energy, not fleeing dangers to carry out the task, which often results in saving human lives and putting one’s own safety at risk.” “Serving, serving and serving gives us dignity. What is your dignity? I am a servant: this is a great dignity!”
In this sense, the Pope pointed out that many people continue helping the community as volunteers after leaving active service, which is why he highlighted the commitment to service as a lifelong value.
Recalling that Christopher means “Christ-bearer,” the Pope highlighted that his dedication to helping and saving those in need reflects Christ’s mission of service and help. He concluded his speech with a prayer asking for God’s protection and guidance and invoking the blessings of his patron saint for the troops to continue in their noble cause.
