Fratelli Tutti: On Fraternity and Social Friendship

Pope Francis’s prophetic new encyclical speaks directly into the lives of men and women today! This greatly welcomed encyclical is a beautiful reflection on humanity’s path forward to a deeply desired and sought-after peace. Pope Francis addresses his renewed call to universal fraternity “to all people of good will, regardless of their religious convictions.”

Be convinced that you have a crucial part in securing peace! In his letter, the pope delves into the “art and architecture” that builds peace and universal fraternity. Pope Francis studies “the symptoms of an unhealthy society” in this encyclical and has an alternative proposal: “a way of life marked by the flavor of the Gospel.” Amid the “noisy potpourri of facts and opinions” present in today’s world, Pope Francis suggests respectful dialogue and proposes that we answer with “a new vision of fraternity and social friendship.” He assures us that “no single act of love for God will be lost” and reminds us that “everyone has a fundamental role to play” in writing “a new page of history, a page full of hope.”

Reflect on what makes for lasting peace! As he considers the “universal scope” of fraternal love, Pope Francis paints a picture of a social peace of “enduring stability” that draws its sustenance from a culture of encounter and respecting “the truth of our human dignity.” He rebukes “fundamentalist intolerance” and other forms of “shameless aggression” that get in the way of fraternal peace. Pope Francis asks, instead, that we recover kindness and forgiveness, so that we could arise as “stars shining in the midst of darkness.”

The OSV edition includes discussion questions, which are perfect for individual or group study.