"Your concern for rural life, grounded in the vision of the Church's social doctrine, is an eloquent expression of that imperative to 'till and keep the garden of the world' to which we have been called, if we wish to carry on God's creative activity and to protect our common home" said the Pope.

"Looking at rural life today, we see the primacy of the market, which determines actions and decisions. Making money, above all else!" he exclaimed. "Even at the expense of sacrificing the rhythms of agricultural life, with its times of work and leisure, its weekly rest and its concern for the family. Those who live close to the land are led to conclude that development is not equal for everyone, that the life of farming communities is of lesser value. Solidarity itself, frequently invoked as a remedy, is insufficient unless it is accompanied by justice in the allotment of land, in agricultural salaries and in access to markets. For small farmers, a share in decision-making remains a distant prospect, due to the absence of local institutions and the lack of clear rules that recognize as values honesty, fairness and above all trustworthiness". 

Read the full statement here.