ASSISI, Italy –
Pope Francis, visiting Assisi, the saint’s birthplace close to nature, appealed for “courage” in abandoning fossil fuels and lamented that older generations don’t know how to preserve it. protect the planet and ensure peace,
He told young people he was pinning their hopes on their efforts to save the planet and make the world economy more attentive to the poor.
During Saturday’s brief visit to the hill town in central Italy, Pope Francis spoke to a group of about 1,000 young people, including several young economists. Others are involved in efforts including startups, which focus on helping the environment.
Participants come from all over the world. Among them was a woman who told the pope how she and her husband had been helped to flee Afghanistan after the Taliban takeover last year by an organization called The Economy of Germany. Francis, inspired by the life of Saint Francis, along with his takeover. care about the poor and others in need.
The Pope said there is a need for a world economy that embodies “a new vision of the environment and the Earth.”
“There are so many people, businesses and organizations that are doing ecological transformation. We need to continue on this path and do more,” Francis said.
The Pope raised the urgent need to discuss development models.
“Now is the time for renewed courage in abandoning fossil fuels to accelerate the development of zero- or positive-impact energy sources,” said Francis.
“Our generation has left you with a rich legacy, but we did not know how to protect the planet and did not guarantee peace,” he told young people.
He lamented the lack of “creativity, optimism, enthusiasm” and told young people that “we are grateful to God that you are here. You are not only there tomorrow but you are here today. .”
