Family

The permanent observer of the Holy See at the United Nations is highlighting the family as a primary resource for building the economy and social integration and development.

Archbishop Celestino Migliore stated this Thursday in an address about social integration, which he delivered at the 48th session of the Commission for Social Development of the United Nations Economic and Social Council. Faced to the challenges of social integration in an increasingly globalized world, he said, there is a need to “push further ahead and take into consideration the integral good of the human person in his various dimensions, including the spiritual.”

As well, the prelate added, due to the current economic recession, the social integration discussion “must take into account its link with poverty eradication and full employment, including decent work for all.”

He continued: “In this context, in order to promote economic and social growth along with employment, it seems that the patterns of consumption should be focused upon relational goods and services which promote greater connection between people.

“By investing in relational goods, such as medical care, education, culture, art, sport — all things which develop a person and require unique human interaction rather than machine production — the state, through its public intervention, would be addressing development at its root, while also promoting employment and long-term development.”

YORK, FEB. 5, 2010 (Zenit.org)