A country’s greatness determined by how it treats its poorest citizens

Recently a lifesize sculpture of Jesus depicted as a homeless person lying down on a bench, has been placed at the entrance of the Office of Papal Charities at the Vatican.

It was created by Canadian sculptor Timothy P Schmalz. Jesus is depicted as lying down on a bench, his body almost entirely covered by a thin blanket. You cannot see the face, just the feet poking out and these bear the unequivocal signs of the crucifixion. Jesus was homeless and if research proves reliable many Irish people are one pay cheque from experiencing homelessness as well.

Without family, friends, or supportive services from caring organisations many more than the current thousands would also experience homelessness in Ireland. I have believed for many years that a country’s greatness is determined by how it treats its poorest citizens. The numbers of homeless people in Ireland are daunting, and they are constantly rising and I think we must do our upmost and more to remedy this dreadful situation. We must hold our public politicians, officials, and those in power accountable and ensure they and us create more housing for our homeless and poor.