On the contrary, the crisis can be dealt with as an opportunity to grow together in solidarity and the quality of work, the Pope said during an audience with members of the Italian Association of Leather Chemists.

Francis stressed that many workers and families live difficult situations aggravated by the health emergency, and asked participants in the meeting that “the example and intercession of St. Joseph” help them not to be discouraged and enrich their talent and great experience to move forward and open new paths.

For this purpose, combining the wisdom of the elderly with the enthusiasm of youths is important, added the Pope, who affirmed that in his opinion, this is the challenge of these times.

On the other hand, His Holiness addressed the issue of the environmental impact of leather to manufacture articles such as bags and shoes.

Therefore, he said, you are also called to make your specific contribution to the care of the common home and you can only do so in the way you shape your own work.

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