At this time of crisis we cannot be concerned solely with…
“At this time of crisis we cannot be concerned solely with ourselves, withdrawing into loneliness, discouragement and a sense of powerlessness in the face of problems. Please do not withdraw into yourselves! This is a danger: we shut ourselves up in the parish, with our friends, within the movement, with the like-minded... but do you know what happens? When the Church becomes closed, she becomes an ailing Church, she falls ill! That is a danger. . . .A Church closed in on herself is the same, a sick Church.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
He warns that isolation and self‑absorption weaken the Church, urging communal engagement to stay healthy and vibrant.
In simple terms: Isolation harms the community; stay connected.
Engage with others, avoid withdrawing.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- parish meetings
- social activism
- interfaith dialogue
- volunteering
- support groups
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you balance personal reflection with community involvement?
- What risks arise when a group becomes too insular?
Overemphasis on community can suppress individual needs and dissent.