Work is fundamental to the dignity of the person. Work, to use an image, 'anoints' with dignity, fills us with dignity, makes us similar to God who has worked and still works, who always acts.

The laity are called to become a leaven of Christian living within society.

The world makes us look towards ourselves, our possessions, our desires.The Gospel invites us to be open to others, to share with the poor.

Every expression of true beauty can be acknowledged as a path leading to an encounter with the Lord Jesus.

I entrust this Twenty-second World Day of the Sick to the intercession of Mary. I ask her to help the sick to bear their sufferings in fellowship with Jesus Christ and to support all those who care for them. To all the ill, and to all the health-care workers and volunteers who assist them, I cordially impart my Apostolic Blessing.

One cannot provoke, one cannot insult other people's faith, one cannot make fun of faith.

All men and women of good will are bound by the task of pursuing peace.