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Ability Quote by John F. Kennedy

“There is only one rule by which to judge if God is near us or is far away - the rule that God's word is giving us today: everyone concerned for the hungry, the naked, the poor, for those who have vanished in police custody, for the tortured, for prisoners, for all flesh that suffers, has God close…” quote by John F. Kennedy
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“There is only one rule by which to judge if God is near us or is far away - the rule that God's word is giving us today: everyone concerned for the hungry, the naked, the poor, for those who have vanished in police custody, for the tortured, for prisoners, for all flesh that suffers, has God close at hand. We have the ability, we have the means, and we have the capacity to eliminate hunger from the face of the earth. We need only the will.”

John F. Kennedy

About This Quote

Source Speech: Inaugural Address, 1961

Compassionate action toward the suffering demonstrates divine proximity; humanity can end hunger through will and resources.

In simple terms: Helping the needy shows God is near.

Key Takeaway

Commit to alleviating suffering.

Themes

compassion justice humanity

Mood

inspirational serious

Type

political ethical

When to use this quote

  • policy making
  • community service
  • international aid

Key Concepts

theology social responsibility

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can societies mobilize resources for the hungry?
  • What role does faith play in social action?
A Different Perspective

Will alone may not overcome systemic barriers.

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