Pope Leo XIV recently called gambling a "scourge," and said Jesus' birth is "the most authentic aspect of all power."
Speaking to the National Association of Italian Municipalities in a December 29 audience, Pope Leo XIV condemned gambling and encouraged people to celebrate children and families.
Cities today, said Pope Leo, "know forms of marginalization, violence, and loneliness that demand to be confronted."
In particular, he said, he wanted to bring attention to "the scourge of gambling, which ruins many families." Italy is Europe's largest gambling market, and nearly half of Italians gambled in the last year.
"Statistics show a sharp increase in Italy in recent years," said Pope Leo. He cited a recent Italian Caritas report, saying, "this is a serious problem in terms of education, mental health, and social trust."
"We cannot forget other forms of loneliness that many people suffer from: mental disorders, depression, cultural and spiritual poverty, and social abandonment. They are signs that show how much hope is needed," he said.
The Incarnation of Christ, said Pope Leo, "brings us face to face with a child, whose gentle fragility clashes with the arrogance of King Herod."
"In particular, the killing of the innocents ordered by the latter not only means the loss of a future for society, but is also a manifestation of inhumane power, which does not know the beauty of love because it ignores the dignity of human life," he said.
But when Jesus was born, said Pope Leo, the world was shown "the most authentic aspect of all power, which is first and foremost responsibility and service."
Public leaders
Leaders, such as the people present in the audience, must "embody the virtues of humility, honesty and sharing," said Pope Leo.
"In your public commitment, in particular, you are aware of how important listening is, as a social dynamic that activates these virtues," he said. "Indeed, it is a matter of paying attention to the needs of families and individuals, taking special care of the most vulnerable, for the good of all."
These leaders cannot be indifferent to "the demographic crisis and the struggles of families and the young," as well as loneliness in elder populations and "the silent cry of the poor, the pollution of the environment and social conflicts are all situations that do not leave you indifferent."
"As you seek answers, you are well aware that our cities are not anonymous places, but rather faces and histories to be cherished as precious treasure. In this task, you become mayors day by day, growing as just and reliable administrators," he said.
