August papal intentions: Politics and political leaders

The papal prayer intention for August is for what Pope Paul VI described as “one of the highest forms of charity.” That is politics and political leaders.

But Pope Francis clarifies he is not praying for those known for “politicking.” Rather he is looking to promote politics that listens and serves the poor.

The pope stresses that without good politics the world cannot move towards universal fraternity. But he says if politicians keep those in need at the forefront of their minds, “politics is much more noble than it appears.”

August is dedicated to acknowledging the politicans who serve the common good and to praying for more leaders who will work “for integral human development…caring for those who have lost their jobs.”