We often hear the phrase “Being conformed to Christ.” Perhaps we could consider this and how it will be a reality in this world and not simply in the world to come. Christians and well meaning believers of all kinds strive to give food, drink, clothing, shelter, care, and a welcome to all in need. Christians perceive this as giving these things to the Lord who knocks at the door.
As I write this article the G7 are about to start their proceedings in Cornwall. They are an organisation of the world’s so-called advanced economies consisting of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and the UK. At the meeting of these economies we hope that all will hear the Lord knocking at the door of their meeting, directly or indirectly. When the G7 has finished and we are waiting to see its conclusions implemented will the Lord’s voice have been heard?
There is little doubt that peace will be achieved through the putting into effect of social and international justice. These include the practice of virtues which favour togetherness, and teach us to live in unity. We can then build in unity, by giving and receiving, a new society and a better world. My hope is that as the principal world leader President Joe Biden, who is currently seeking to heal America, will successfully influence the world bringing all parts together.
Can the meeting in Cornwall make progress with Global inequality and enhance the crucial role of aid and not reduce it in real terms? Are G7 economies themselves fuelling inequality at home and around the world? Are these governments the ones who should force the pharmaceutical companies to share their vaccine know-how? Perhaps a patent waiver may assist here? Of course the matters that need to be discussed go beyond social and international justice as the purpose of Cornwall is to discuss and sometimes act to help resolve all global problems with special focus on economic issues. Solidarity with fellow members is key here as since its inception in 1970 the group has discussed financial crises, monetary systems and major world crises such as oil shortages. Quite rightly climate and environment will play a leading role. Care for the environment represents a challenge for all of humanity. It is a matter of a common and universal duty to respect the common good.
Most Catholics accept that democracy supports the state but it does differ from secular beliefs. The member states attending G7 understand that their purpose is to promote the well-being of the person. Government and democracy are a means for human fulfilment. Is this really an end in itself? Christians take the view that government and democracy work in harmony with the divine.
Catholics are positive towards democracy and other forms of human solidarity. So let us hope that, as the Lord knocks our representatives in Cornwall, will have listened and wil; implement their agreements. Deacon John Mullin