Economic progress must serve the human person, and the gifts God entrusts to us carry a responsibility toward others. These themes guided Ashley Noronha’s conversation with Mark Swartzberg on Relevant in Rome, as they discussed Pope Leo XIV’s teaching on work, wealth, and the common good.
Reporting from Rome, Ashley explained that the Holy Father’s reflection on Gaudium et Spes, the Second Vatican Council’s Pastoral Constitution on the Church in the Modern World, emphasized the need for just economic and political systems. Human dignity must guide their decisions, with development remaining under human direction.
Work, Ashley noted, allows people to develop their abilities, support their families, and contribute to society. It also offers participation in God’s creative work. Unemployment, exploitation, and harmful working conditions undermine that dignity and demand a response informed by Catholic social teaching.
The Pope also drew attention to the universal destination of earthly goods. Economic decisions should account for the needs of individuals and communities, including generations yet to come. He encouraged Christians to deepen their understanding of the Church’s social doctrine and apply it in public life as a practical contribution to peace.
Mark asked how these principles apply to artificial intelligence. Ashley explained that technology must remain subject to human judgment, guided by moral formation. Those responsible for important decisions need an understanding of the human person and the common good that technical capabilities alone cannot provide.
The conversation then turned to the Pope’s November prayer intention, which invited Christians to examine their relationship with wealth. Money and possessions, along with talents and opportunities, are gifts entrusted to us by God for the benefit of others.
Ashley explained that the Holy Father encouraged a broader understanding of wealth, measured by our willingness to share and help others flourish. Prayer should lead to concrete generosity through charitable giving, service, and the responsible use of our abilities.
Mark observed that giving can also help loosen our attachment to material security. Parting with what we possess offers an opportunity to recognize our dependence on God and respond to our neighbors’ needs.
That teaching found a practical example in the life of St. Charles Borromeo, whose November 4 feast day coincided with the broadcast. Ashley recalled his work implementing the Council of Trent and strengthening priestly formation as Archbishop of Milan.
During the plague of 1576, Borromeo remained with his people, visited the sick, organized assistance, and devoted his resources to their care. His pastoral leadership demonstrated the generosity and responsibility discussed throughout the program.
The broadcast also included Italy’s National Unity and Armed Forces Day, an occasion to remember those who died in military service and renew prayers for peace.