For the VIII World Day of the Poor, to be held on November 17, 2024, Pope Francis has chosen a particularly significant motto for this year dedicated to prayer, given that the day will be celebrated shortly before the beginning of the Jubilee Year of 2025: “The prayer of the poor rises up to God” (cf Sir 21.5). Given the context, this expression, which comes from the ancient sacred author Ben Sira, has an immediate and clear impact.
The Pope reiterates that the poor have a privileged place in the heart of God, who is attentive and close to each of them. God listens to the prayers of the poor and, in the face of suffering, becomes “impatient” until he has done them justice. In fact, the book of Sirach goes further, stating that, “the judgment of God will be in favor of the poor” (see 21.5).
Read Pope Francis’ message here…
A Pastoral Handbook is also available for dioceses and parishes to help prepare for and to celebrate the Eighth World Day of the Poor.