Characteristics of Brotherhood in the Teaching of Pope Francis

Michał Pierzchała

Faculty of Theology of the Catholic University of John Paul II. in Lublin
https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9214-2353

Abstract

The paper presents papal teaching about brotherhood. In the encyclical letter Fratelli tutti Pope Francis paid recipients’ attention to a few factors about building a fraternal attitude, which is a necessary value in the contemporary world. Papal views on the notion of brotherhood is composed of many elements. The article presents three main components. The first one accounts for the biblical notion of fraternity. The second shows Francis’ understanding of this concept. The third part is focused on features of brotherhood mentioned in his encyclical letter. Papal teaching urged Christians to be merciful like the Good Samaritan, to stay sensitive and observant to the needs of others. Pope Francis emphasized that fraternity embodies in solidarity and service to everyone especially to the poor people.

Keywords:

Fratelli tutti, Pope Francis, brotherhood, Good Samaritan, solidarity