In the Audience In his general audience this Wednesday after the Baptism of the Lord, Pope Francis continued his meditation on the theme 'The Father's Beloved', children, and denounced that "hundreds of millions of minors" are forced to work and many of them are exposed to particularly dangerous jobs, even though they are under the minimum age to be subject to the obligations of adulthood.
And that "not to mention the children who are slaves of trafficking for prostitution or pornography, and forced marriages," he said, citing the case of the child Loan, who disappeared in Corrientes (Argentina) in 2024, presumably kidnapped for organ trafficking.
Appreciation to the Poles: Missionary singers and war aid
In a Paul VI Hall full of pilgrims, and also with a circus show, as in the previous Audience, and a little dog on the stage, the Pontiff launched various messages to the pilgrims in different languages, many related to the Jubilee of Hope, and of course to the pilgrims of the Jubilee of Hope. smaller.
For example, in addressing the many Polish-speaking faithful at the Vatican today, he thanked "the little Missionary Singers, who these days sing Christmas songs going from house to house to raise funds for poor children in mission countries. With this effort, many of your companions, even in war-torn countries, have the opportunity to have a meal, education and medical care. I bless you from my heart!".
Strong words against mistreatment and abuse
In our societies, unfortunately, the Pope stressed, "children are abused and mistreated in numerous ways. Child abuse, whatever its nature, is a despicable and heinous act. It is not simply a scourge of society and a crime; it is a most serious violation of God's commandments. No child should be abused. One case is already too many.
"Fighting exploitation, especially child exploitation, is the way to build a better future for the whole of society," he said. "It is therefore necessary to awaken consciences, to practice closeness and concrete solidarity with abused children and young people and, at the same time, to create trust and synergies among those who are committed to offering them opportunities and safe places in which to grow up serene."
Do not buy from companies with child labor
In the chapter on the examination, the Holy Father asked what each of us can do. First of all, not to be accomplices, "And when are we accomplices? For example, when we buy products that employ child labor. How can I eat and dress knowing that behind that food or that clothing there are exploited children, who work instead of going to school?"
"Becoming aware of what we buy is a first act in order not to be complicit," he reiterated. "Some will say that, as individuals, we can't do much. That's true, but each one of us can be a drop that, united with many other drops, can become a sea."
At this point, he appealed "to institutions, including ecclesiastical ones, and to companies for their responsibility: they can make a difference by directing their investments to companies that do not use or allow child labor."
Appeals to governments and journalists
Many states and international organizations have enacted laws and directives against child labor, "but more can be done". The Pontiff also urged "journalists to do their part: they can help raise awareness of the problem and help find solutions. Denounce these things.
And he thanked "all those who do not look the other way when they see children forced to become adults too soon. Let us always remember the words of Jesus: 'Whatever you did for the least of my brethren, you did for me' (Mt 25:40)".
Saint Teresa of Calcutta
"St. Teresa of Calcutta, a joyful worker in the vineyard of the Lord, was the mother of the most disadvantaged and forgotten children. With the tenderness and care of her gaze, she can accompany us to see the invisible little ones, the too many slaves of a world that we cannot abandon to its injustices. Because the happiness of the weakest builds peace for all", the Pope commented.
"And with Mother Teresa we give voice to the children: "I ask for a safe place where I can play. I ask for a smile from someone who knows how to love. I ask for the right to be a child, to be hope for a better world. I ask to be able to grow as a person. Can I count on you?" (Saint Teresa of Calcutta)
Weapons manufacturers be merciful
Before praying the Our Father and giving the Blessing, the Pope asked for prayers, as he usually does, for the martyred Ukraine, Myanmar (he showed his support for the victims of the recent earthquake), Palestine. Israel and for so many countries at war. "Let us pray for peace. That arms manufacturers may have compassion in their hearts."
