Durham theologian supports launch of Pope Francis’ new teachings

One of our leading theologians has spoken alongside Pope Francis at the global launch of his new Papal Encyclical - one of the Pope's highest forms of communication. Dr Anna Rowlands joined the Pope at Vatican City in Rome as he unveiled 'Fratelli Tutti'. Fratelli Tutti is a letter issued by the Pope to the world, addressing what he believes to be a critical moment in ecological, political, economic and social life. It follows in a long tradition of such global letters on social issues. This letter is the first to be issued out of an interfaith encounter. The letter focuses on our need to find creative solutions to issues such as the pandemic, inequality and political instability, with a particular focus on migration. Spiritual reflections In her televised address, Anna reflected on the 'spiritual discipline' of the letter, observing that the Pope asks readers to understand that "to be truly human is to be willing to look at the world in its beauty and its pain, to listen deeply through human encounters to the griefs and the joys of one's age and to take these into oneself, to carry them as one's own.' Following her address, Anna also briefed global ambassadors who are accredited to the Holy See, known as the Vatican Diplomatic Corps, on the economic and political contents of the document.