Pope Francis recently addressed the issue of gluttony at his most recent Wednesday general audience, emphasizing its broader implications beyond personal health. He says gluttony is a destructive force, not only affecting individuals but also the planet!
According to Pope Francis, gluttony as a sin extends beyond the mere act of overeating. It reflects our relationship with food and, more broadly, with the Earth’s resources. This vice, he asserts, is turning humans from custodians of the Earth into rampant consumers and exploiters. “We have grabbed everything, in order to become the masters of all things,” he said, highlighting the detrimental effect this attitude has on the environment.
The Pope’s words serve as a wake-up call in an era where eating disorders such as “anorexia, bulimia, obesity” are rampant. These, he suggests, are not just physical ailments but are deeply rooted to one’s internal struggles. “They are illnesses, often extremely painful, that are mostly linked to sufferings of the psyche and the soul,” he said.
Pope Francis also drew a parallel between the physical act of eating and the spiritual condition of the individual. “Tell me how you eat, and I will tell you what kind of soul you possess,” he said, suggesting a link between our dietary habits and inner dispositions.
Pope Francis believes moderation and responsibility is not only for personal health, but also for the well-being of the planet. He called for universal concern for the environment, a balanced and thankful approach to consumption, and engagement with our role as stewards of the Earth in order to remind us of our responsibility towards our planet and each other.
Pray with Pope Francis for those struggling with gluttony!
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