There is an invisible force that binds our lives together, a fine yet tenacious thread that urges us to reach out to others, especially when the burden of life becomes heavier. We call this force solidarity, and it is much more than a simple act of charity: it is a profound feeling of mutual support, of being there in good times and difficult ones, sharing joys and offering support in times of hardship; it is therefore not merely material giving, but a deep bond that brings us closer to others.
If we understand it this way, we realize that solidarity is not merely an abstract concept, but a true way of life. Caring for others without expecting anything in return is one of the greatest challenges for every Christian. Jesus himself taught us that authentic love is free, selfless, and generous. And yet, how difficult is it to put this teaching into practice in everyday life?
Saint Luigi Orione: a life of constant care
Throughout human history, certain figures have shone like beacons of this virtue, embodying through their very existence the most authentic meaning of solidarity. Among them, the figure of Saint Luigi Orione shines brightly, a man whose entire life was a constant care for those who came close to him and those he met through his works of charity.
Don Orione did not limit himself to words: his love was translated into concrete actions, directed especially toward the least, precisely because they were the least valued and considered by society.
He saw beyond appearances, perceiving that “in the poorest of men shines the image of God”. This profound vision led him to devote his life to those whom society often ignored: adolescents, the elderly, and people with disabilities, understanding that human dignity “does not depend on wealth, cognitive abilities, social respectability, or other qualities”.
His life was a succession of acts of altruism, offering help without expecting anything in return: for example, we see him rushing to the aid of the populations affected by the earthquakes in Messina and Reggio Calabria in 1908 and in the Marsica region in 1915, opening the doors of his Houses to countless orphans, offering them not only shelter, but a way of life, education, and work. These were not simple acts of charity, but expressions of profound empathy, that “feeling and understanding the emotions of others” that drove him to alleviate suffering with tireless dedication.
He founded the Congregation of the Sons of Divine Providence and the Little Missionary Sisters of Charity precisely to continue this work of care and solidarity.
Let us learn solidarity from Saint Luigi Orione
Putting Don Orione's lesson into practice is not easy, but we can start with small steps in our daily lives:
1. Stop doing good in order to receive approval or expecting others to reciprocate: this is something we all know; it is a deeply human feeling, but giving and dedicating ourselves to others freely brings a joy that has a taste of heaven.
2. Remember that everything we have is a gift from God: if we adopt the perspective of a free gift, we also realize that, if we have the opportunity to help, it is first and foremost because we ourselves have received so much: health, time, resources, and opportunities. Giving something back to others is a way of acknowledging God's generosity in our lives.
3. Look to Jesus and the saints as role models: Jesus healed, taught, and forgave without ever asking for anything in return. The saints, like Don Orione, lived with the same spirit. Why not try to imitate them in our own small way? If you do not know Don Orione, try to learn more about him. There are many biographies available. We recommend one that is rich in content, concise, affordable, and accessible.
To discover the wonders of love that saints are capable of, also explore the I Santi del Messalino collection: numerous concise, affordable profiles of saints, blesseds, venerables, and servants of God who have discovered the secret of true joy!
The story of Don Orione teaches us that caring for others without expecting anything in return is the most authentic form of love. Of course, it is not easy. We would all like to be recognized and appreciated for what we do. But if we learn to help without expectations, we will discover a deeper joy: the joy of having done good solely out of love, just as the Gospel teaches us.
Let us draw inspiration from the tireless heart of Saint Luigi Orione, from his gaze that saw dignity in every creature, and let us do our part to weave that network of solidarity that makes the world a more humane and welcoming place, because, deep down, to love truly means to care.
