A Decisive Choosing for Humanity

In the Introduction to Pope Leo XIV’s encyclical Magnifica Humanitas, the pope states that magnificent humanity today faces a crucial choice: to decide whether to build a new Babel or to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem, as Nehemiah did after the exile in Babylon. The conscience of every person of our time is challenged by questions that can no longer be avoided: “Where are we going? Toward what goal do we wish to direct ourselves? Which direction should we choose as a human community and as peoples?” * It is time for communal discernment that leads to a profound understanding of the signs of the times, in order to respond to the epochal challenges that have already emerged on the horizon. The biblical icons presented to us by “Magnifica Humanitas” are precious guides for a journey of personal and communal deepening.