17/10/25

9. I invoke upon all of you gathered here today — the FAO and its officials, who strive daily to fulfill their responsibilities with virtue and to lead by example — the blessings of God, who cares for the poor, the hungry and the helpless. May God renew in each of us that hope which does not disappoint (cf. Rom 5:5). The challenges that lie before us are immense, but so is our potential and the possible courses of action! Hunger has many names, and weighs upon the entire human family. Every human person hungers not only for bread, but also for everything that allows for maturity and growth towards the happiness for which all of have been created. There is a hunger for faith, hope and love that must be channeled into the comprehensive response that we are called to carry out together. What Jesus said to his disciples when facing a hungry crowd remains a key and pressing challenge for the international community: “Give them something to eat” (Mk 6:37). With the small contribution of the disciples, Jesus performed a great miracle. Do not tire, then, of asking God today for the courage and the energy to continue to work towards a justice that will yield lasting and beneficial results. As you continue your efforts, you will always be able to count on the solidarity and engagement, the commitment of the Holy See and the institutions of the Catholic Church that stand ready to go out and serve the poorest and the most disadvantaged throughout the world.