Paris - Pope Francis addressed a group of entrepreneurs this week, stressing that the true value of work originates from human beings, rather than machines. He emphasized the role of businessmen and businesswomen in promoting the common good through job creation, particularly for the youth. He stated, "Today, an increasingly important way of participating in the common good is to create jobs, jobs for everyone, especially young people — trust young people: They need work, and you need them," in a message delivered on August 28.

He highlighted the significance of each new job as shared wealth that doesn't simply generate financial interest but is invested to enhance lives and dignify individuals. The pope asserted, "Work is legitimately important... It is we, and not the machines, who are the true value of work."

Bishop Matthieu Rougé of the Diocese of Nanterre, France, delivered Pope Francis' message during the Meeting of Entrepreneurs of France, which took place on August 28–29 at the Paris Longchamp Racecourse. The event included a religious debate on "the sacred and the profane: faith in the future," featuring representatives from Islam, Judaism, and philosophy, as well as Sister Nathalie Becquart from the Vatican's Synod of Bishops.

Pope Francis acknowledged the challenges faced by the business world, such as the war in Ukraine and the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. He noted entrepreneurs' struggles and the empathy of the Church towards them. He remarked, "The Book of Job teaches us that misfortune is not synonymous with fault... The Church understands the suffering of the good entrepreneur, she understands your suffering. She welcomes it, she accompanies you, she thanks you."

The pope encouraged entrepreneurs to view themselves as the primary capital of their companies, embracing virtues, willpower, and the determination to live justly. He emphasized the superiority of human capital over financial capital and urged entrepreneurs to consider their work a vocation and moral obligation. He also called upon them to infuse their creativity into civil society, recognizing the urgent need for their contributions in the face of capitalism's impacts. Pope Francis stated, "This is an urgent time, a very urgent time: We must, you must, do more. The children will thank you, and I with them."