Reflection
When Jesus heals someone, He not only eradicates the physical ailment from the body, but also restores dignity, reintroducing him or her into society, giving a new life. Of course, only He can do this, but the attitude, the approach toward the person is a model for us. A holistic view of care helps counter the “throwaway culture” which excludes those who, for various reasons, do not meet certain standards. This is a culture of today, of discarding. That which does not work is thrown out: use and discard on all levels. In a society that is in danger of seeing the sick as a burden, a cost, we need to restore to the centre what is priceless and cannot be bought or sold, that is, the dignity of the person. Illnesses may mark the body, confuse thoughts, take away strength, but they can never nullify the value of human life, which must always be protected, from conception to its natural end. I hope that research and the various health professions will always have this outlook. . . .
Even in the field of healthcare a common temptation is to make the economic or political interests of one group prevail at the expense of the majority of the population. . . . The fundamental right to healthcare, “pertains to the value of justice, whereby there are no distinctions between peoples and ethnic groups, taking into account their objective living conditions, and stages of development, in pursuing the common good, which is at the same time the good of all and of each individual.” . . . It is necessary to work to ensure that everyone has access to care, that the healthcare system is supported and promoted, and that it continues to be free of charge. Cutting healthcare resources is an outrage against humanity.
—Pope Francis (Address to Members of the Federsanità Confederation, June 2022)
Questions for Reflection:
n Pope Francis highlights the “holistic view of care” and the importance of restoring dignity. How can you, in your own community or parish, reflect this model of care for those who are marginalized or uninsured?
n Pope Francis speaks about ensuring the health system “continues to be free of charge.” How does this vision shape how we think about public versus private responsibility for care in our society?
n How does the idea of a “throwaway culture” challenge your understanding of the gospel’s call to love and protect all life, from birth to natural death?
n How do systemic inequities in the U.S.—like geographic, racial, or economic disparities—show that health care is still treated as a privilege rather than a right?
n What role does prayer, advocacy, or community action play in upholding the value of human life when systemic barriers exist?
n What concrete steps can individuals or faith communities take to address gaps in access, whether through advocacy, education, or direct service?
LOOKING BACK
. IPJC Community Assembly
More than 200 Catholic leaders representing more than 50 communities gathered for a powerful event focused on relationship building, leadership development, prayer, and collective action. The community engaged in more than 800 one-to-one relational meetings, 30 conversations in the Spirit, (pictured right), nominated over 150 women to IPJC’s new Women’s Leadership Team, and made a commitment to mobilize 1,000 people for immigration justice during the month of March. When we come together, we are powerful!
LOOKING FORWARD
. . . Town Hall - Thriving Together: Care, Community, and Creation Saturday, March 7, 10–11:30 a.m. Seattle University Student Center
Led by IPJC’s Youth Action Team and Seattle University students, the community will share a vision for a flourishing in King County with King County Council representatives. Learn more and register here: https:// ipjc.or g/ thriving-together-townhall-registration/
NW Ignatian Advocacy Summit
March 5–7
Seattle University & Bellarmine College Preparatory
IPJC is excited to cohost and organize the fourth annual NW Ignatian Advocacy Summit! Join more than 65 youth from throughout the PNW region for two evenings of storytelling and relationship building and a community town hall on Saturday morning. Learn more and register here: https://www.jesuitswestcore.org/ nw-summit-adults-info