In an interview with the Vatican media, Archbishop David breaks down clichés about wealth: «The Pope will speak to 150 nationalities. Behind luxury lies loneliness and a crisis of meaning».
There is a patina of glamour enveloping the Principality of Monaco, of yachts, grand prizes and exclusive receptions. But if you look closely, underneath that gilded surface, the same frailties that unite every human being vibrate. This is the starting point of Msgr. Dominique-Marie David, Archbishop of Monaco, in presenting to the Vatican media the historic apostolic journey that Pope Leo XIV will celebrate his birthday on 28 March next.
The visit to the Principality - the second smallest state in the world after the Vatican - will not just be a diplomatic courtesy visit, but an act of spiritual closeness to a reality that Monsignor David defines as a «microcosm of the entire world».
A “big world” in two square kilometres
Despite its small size, Munich hosts over 150 nationalities. «There is often a caricatured image of the Principality, seen only as a city of luxury,» explains the archbishop. «In reality, its real wealth is multiculturalism. The Pope, speaking here, will ideally address every corner of the planet».
This social mix includes not only wealthy residents, but thousands of workers who cross the border every day and who often face invisible challenges, such as the high cost of living and the housing crisis.
Invisible poverty: loneliness and crisis of meaning
If material poverty in Munich is «hidden and difficult to see», there are other forms of destitution that affect those who apparently have everything. Monsignor David speaks openly of a «crisis of the meaning of life» and of deep loneliness that emerges precisely when economic concerns are absent.
«We see bewildered parents, separations and family dramas that are all the more striking because life seems, on the surface, easier. Our task is to take care of these real and sometimes very painful frailties».
Faith is not a cultural accessory
In the Principality, where Catholicism is the State religion, the risk is that the faith is perceived as a mere historical heritage or cultural identity. Bishop David is clear on this point: «It is not enough to call oneself Catholic. I always try to remember that faith is a responsibility that affects choices, discernment and consistency in life. Faith asks us to look at the world and the poorest with new eyes».
The image of Zacchaeus: the life-changing encounter
To describe the Church's mission in this unique context, the archbishop chooses the Gospel image of Zacchaeus, the rich and socially important man whom Jesus asks to visit.
«Jesus enters that house simply to make him discover the joy of the Gospel,» Monsignor David concludes. «Through closeness, he reveals to him that the Kingdom of God is entering his heart. I believe that the coming of the Pope will be, in this sense, a great grace for all of us».
