His Holiness Pope Francis began his address to the association against Leukemia, Lymphoma and Myeloma by reminding participants that in today’s liturgy, the Church invites us to read about the great gifts God has given humans. The Pontiff went on the acknowledge that the Association’s main lines of action “are in fact very effective” with regards to scientific research, healthcare and the training of staff. In these three spheres, says the Pontiff, “you fulfill the roles that humans are called to”.
As reported by Vatican news, With scientific research, said the Pontiff, “you investigate the biological dimension of man, in order to relieve him from the disease… with increasingly effective therapies”. With healthcare, he continued, “you are close to the suffering, to accompany them in the time of difficulty, so that no one ever feels alone…” In addition, with the training of staff, he concludes, “you qualify your actions to promote a global care of the sick person…” His Holiness Pope Francis went on to compare the volunteers, who “accompany” the members of the Association, to Mary, who brought “much consolation” to Jesus on the Cross. This attitude, he said, is necessary when dealing with people suffering from such complicated illnesses.
His Holiness Pope Francis assured the members of the Association present, that their “praiseworthy commitment can make each person more and more aware of the culture of giving and caring for the other”. This, he concluded, is essential for the life and wellbeing of every human community.
