https://allafrica.com/stories/202308160256.html I thought it was fake news ,at fist, but I saw an article posted by a member of the diocese (The writer is the director of communications and public relations, Kampala Archdiocese) actually defending the sayings without claiming theyre fake https://observer.ug/viewpoint/78942...emogerere-s-exhortation-on-wealth-and-poverty
I would agree that God gifts each one of us with various skills and resources that are to be cultivated for the sake of helping others, whether that pertains to their material or spiritual poverty. Wealth creation should be used for the benefit of others. It always must be put in proper context. One prayer I say before going to bed is of Carmelite inspiration, composed of a number of petitions. One of them is of a cautionary nature: On all who are imperiling their souls by self-indulgence and luxury, have mercy. I believe the good bishop would concur with that petition. On the other hand, think of all the good that Monarch Blessed Karl of Austria did just before, during, and after WWI. He used his wealth wisely for the benefit of his people. Wealth can be a danger leading to self-indulgence or a blessing to be shared with others.
It sounds to me like he is talking about not being lazy and depending upon others to provide for them. That he is warning them not to fall into the habit of complacency. In America, there seems to be many young people not willing to work unless they earn copious amounts of money right away, and as such are receiving or looking for many welfare benefits that are available to them. Many still live with their parents well into their 40s here and say they can't find a job but yet industry here is extremely short on persons willing to work. His comment " being poor should not be misinterpreted to be without money" so he means, poor in spirit, poor in willingness to work, poor in providing for our neighbor, poor in the Holy Spirit, etc.....
