The Grandeur of Justice: Reflections from Pope Leo XIV
On September 20, during the Jubilee of Justice Operators, Pope Leo XIV addressed pilgrims in St. Peter’s Square, emphasizing the profound importance of justice in society and individual lives. He stated, “The grandeur of justice emerges when applied with fidelity to respect for the person,” reminding us that justice is indispensable for orderly societal development and as a cardinal virtue guiding our conscience.
The Role of Justice in Society
Pope Leo XIV underscored that justice should not be merely seen as the application of law or judges’ actions. Instead, it encompasses the dignity of the individual and the communal relationships that bind society together. This creates a social circularity, placing human value at its center. Justice is vital to preserving dignity amidst conflicts arising from individual actions or the loss of common sense within societal structures.
Citing the Catechism of the Catholic Church, he defined justice as a virtue—”a firm and stable disposition that orders our actions according to reason and faith.” This virtue involves a constant and resolute will to give both God and others what is due.
Punishing and Repairing Wrongdoing
The Pope highlighted that the essence of justice is not only about punishing wrongdoing but also about restoring balance through mercy and forgiveness. He referenced biblical stories where justice triumphed over oppression, noting the significance of forgiveness as a core component of justice that harmonizes the supernatural with human experience. “Justice must bring about equality,” he stated, emphasizing that true justice ensures everyone has access to their inherent dignity and opportunities.
Seeking True Equality and Values
According to Pope Leo, real equality allows individuals to fulfill their aspirations and guarantees their rights through a shared system of values and norms. He urged justice operators to pursue forgotten values within society, advocating for the protection of life from its inception and the respect for individual freedoms.
He warned of rising behaviors that disregard human dignity, stressing that justice requires constant attention, radical selflessness, and diligent discernment. As Saint Augustine noted, “Justice is not true justice without prudence, strength, and moderation.” Thus, engaging in justice serves the people and the state fully and constantly.
The Spiritual Hunger for Justice
Quoting the Beatitudes, Pope Leo expressed the spiritual longing inherent in the pursuit of justice: “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for justice, for they shall be satisfied” (Matthew 5:6). He described this desire as a personal endeavor to interpret law humanely while striving towards a higher justice that transcends specific situations.
The Importance of Justice in Governance
Concluding his address, the Pope reflected on the injustice faced by many nations, asserting that a state without justice ceases to be a true state. As Saint Augustine proclaimed, “Without justice, it is impossible to administer the state; a state without true justice is not a state at all.” Justice, he affirmed, is the virtue that allocates each person what belongs to them, reinforcing that true justice is rooted in divine will.
In his exhortation, Pope Leo XIV inspired all to exercise justice diligently for the common good, with eyes fixed on the divine, honoring the law, rights, and dignity of every person.
