"The chosen subject", though "it had already been faced in a few previous rounds, is really present-day. On the other hand, it is convenient for it to be analysed and pointed out", to "avoid a generic use and at times improper use of the expression ‘common good’", thus stated Benedict XVI in the salutation to the president of CEI, Msgr. Angelo Bagnasco, during the opening of the Social Week on "The Common Good Today: A Commitment From Afar". By recalling the social doctrine of the Church, the Pope reminded us that "the common good is not just the sum of individual aspects of the good"; since "it belongs to all and everyone, it is and remains common, because it is indivisible and because only together we can achieve it". "In the past, and even more today, in times of globalization, he stated, – the common good is to be taken into consideration and promoted, in the context of international relations, too". And he said: "the good of each person is naturally intertwined with the good of the whole mankind". Therefore, here is the importance of solidarity, which John Paul II defined "not a sentiment of vague compassion or superficial tenderness for the disgrace of many people", but "the firm and persevering determination to commit oneself" for the good "of all and everyone". (To be continued)
