All political activity must serve and promote the good of the human person and be based on respect for his or her dignity.

The worship of the golden calf of old (cf. Ex 32:15-34) has found a new and heartless image in the cult of money and the dictatorship of an economy which is faceless and lacking any truly humane goal.

These two criteria are like the pillars of true love: deeds, and the gift of self.

The Church, in her wisdom, maintains the distinction between engaged and married couples -- they are not the same, today's culture and society have become rather indifferent to the delicate and serious nature of this passage.

We need to build up society in the light of the Beatitudes, walking towards the Kingdom with the least among us.

Dear young people, the Church expects great things of you and your generosity. Don’t be afraid to aim high.

Our families need to ask for the gift of the Spirit! Through prayer, even in the busiest times, we give time back to God, we find the peace that comes from appreciating the important things, and we encounter the joy of God’s unexpected gifts. Through daily prayer may our homes become, like the house of Martha and Mary, places where Jesus always finds a warm welcome.