Pope to Italian judges: justice
is for the good of society
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| Pope Francis addressing the National Association of Judges of Italy on Feb. 9, 2019 (Vatican Media) |
Pope Francis on Feb. 9 received in audience representatives
of the National Association of Judges of Italy on the occasion of the 110th
anniversary of their association this year.
By Robin Gomes
Pope Francis on Saturday met Italian judges and spoke to
them about the importance of justice for the equilibrium and good of
society in the changing contexts of time.
Justice is a "cardinal virtue" because it
"indicates the right direction", and
"without justice all social life remains jammed", the Pope
told a group of representatives of the National Association of Judges
of Italy who met him in the Vatican on the occasion of the 110thanniversary
of their group.
The promotion of constitutional values, surveillance of
democratic rules and service to the common good, the Pope said, are important
tasks of judges who, he said, are "privileged interlocutors" for the
legislative bodies of the state, because it gives them direct knowledge
of the lives of citizens and their problems.
Reality , truth vs idea
Pope Francis also spoke about the struggle between reality
and idea. While reality is what it is, an idea can be
tampered with. In a world overflowing with information
where truth is often falsified, "you must be the first to
affirm the superiority of reality over the idea," the Pope told the
judges, citing his Apostolic Exhortation, “Evangelii Gaudium”.
Speaking about legislative gaps between the real truth and
ideas that are manipulated, he cited important issues such as the beginning and
end of life, family laws or even "the complex
reality of immigrants".
Whenever justice is called upon to pronounce on these
issues, the Pope said, the judge is asked to
assume responsibility that goes beyond his normal duties.
This calls for continuous updating on the part of judges so they
can better understand changes in society and be able to wisely implement an
evolving interpretation of the laws. It is therefore fundamental that the
judiciary is independent in order to be able to reject pressure
or solicitation aimed at influencing the administration of justice.
Justice respects human dignity
In meting out justice, the Pope said, we touch the
"living flesh" of people, and of the weakest people.
A court verdict can bring relief or consolation but it can also hurt or
discriminate.
In administering justice, the Pope said, the judge must
always seek to respect the dignity of every person with
"a gaze of goodness", almost merciful, that favours the
search for truth in a more authentic way.
In conclusion, the Holy Father reminded the judges they are
much more than officials. They are models to all citizens, especially the
young.
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