Vatican News
The Policoro Project was established in 1995 in southern Italy, in an economically weaker area affected by organized crime. Over time, it expanded its activities beyond the work environment itself. The Pope praised its efforts to combat corruption, worker exploitation, and injustice, and also highlighted the transformation of assets confiscated from the mafia into social initiatives and support for young people starting businesses, Vatican News reports.
Spread enthusiasm
“Today we still need your commitment – especially during this demographic winter, the depopulation of the country’s most fragile areas, where young people risk discouragement and withdrawal,” the Pope said.
Leo XIV added that “there is always time to spread your enthusiasm and sensitivity” even in the most difficult environments and among the most resigned people.
In fulfilling its mission, the Policoro Project can rely on a “compass”: the Gospel, which contains “the true power to transform hearts and the world,” and Catholic social teaching, the study of which “helps us to love this era” and “provides tools for interpreting reality.”
Pope Leo warned the project members not to be “charmed by prophets of doom who see everything in black,” but also not to be naive and believe that everything is fine, Vatican News reports.
To build a society in line with God’s loving plan for humanity, it is necessary – he emphasized – not to lose sight of the centrality of the human person, the common good, solidarity, subsidiarity, the universal destination of goods, participation, integral ecology, and peace.
Community first
The third value indicated by the Pope is community – “an incubator of the future.” While contemporary culture promotes isolation, competition, and the myth of the lone genius in economics, work, politics, and communication, these fields actually depend on “experts in social relations.”
“When community life grows – both in society and in the Church – we create conditions for life to flourish,” said Leo XIV. “You will always be fruitful when you care for community relations. Intelligence, talent, knowledge, social organization, and diligence develop through good relationships.”
Those involved in the project – he added – can also count on “spiritual fathers and mothers,” saints and witnesses whose social commitment over the centuries brought about civic and charitable renewal. The Pope encouraged them to learn about their lives and share their stories, because there is “a river of holiness that has made our communities fruitful.”
The Policoro Project was established in December 1995 by Father Mario Operti, an Italian priest involved in youth ministry.
