THE FEMININE CONTRIBUTION TO ‘SOCIAL FRIENDSHIP’ INSIGHTS FROM THE SOCIAL ENCYCLICAL "FRATELLI TUTTI"

Abstract

The latest social encyclical of Pope Francis, Fratelli Tutti (2020), focuses on the theme of fraternity, which is a key concept of Catholic social teaching. The papal document reiterates that true universal fraternity implies the acknowledgement of the worth of each human person as a primary value of reference, always and everywhere. Fraternity, however, rooted in reciprocity and openness to mutual enrichment, needs to be consciously and carefully cultivated. Although men and women are both called to actively participate in building the culture of fraternity and solidarity that allows the pursuit of the common good, women can offer a particular contribution to promoting fraternity and social friendship. The feminine capacity to nurture and bring forth new life can effectively enhance an attitude of care, which integrates and completes the more masculine orientation towards justice, marked by a distinct sensitivity towards those who are more fragile and in need of help. From this perspective, a cultural change is needed, through education and practice, so that the feminine capacity for care can be recognized as a gift and promoted within organizations and all basic structures of common life.