On the occasion of the 195th anniversary of the Police Corp, I would like to propose for general reflection a quote from an address by Pope John Paul II, on April 2, 1996, to the heads of the police forces from the then 15 member states of the European Union, who were in Rome for a meeting:

"The ideal of European unity, as envisaged by its founding fathers, undoubtedly depends greatly on heightening respect for the rules which govern people's living together in community.

"Otherwise, it is impossible to have effective justice, peace and fraternity. It is in this perspective that your profession has an invaluable role to play. I wish to assure you of my esteem for the work done day after day by so many generous men and women in the police.

"The great challenge which engages their talents and sometimes their very lives is the protection of the inalienable freedom of everyone, without regard for race, culture or religion, which must never be reasons for discrimination. You and your colleagues place your skills and dedication at the service of building a better society for all.

"In recent decades most countries have gone through crises of one kind or another - cultural, social, political - which have left individuals and families more vulnerable and have given rise to new forms and levels of crime in society. Your task is immense, especially when honest citizens begin to feel that they are caught up in an overwhelming spiral of violence, drugs, corruption and lack of mutual trust. The temptation to discouragement affects even some members of your police forces and this is a personal challenge to your own leadership."

In the Gospel we find an important reference to the fig tree, whose branches, when their new leaves sprout, announce that springtime is near. With these words, Jesus encourages the Apostles not to give up in the face of the difficulties and uncertainties of the present. Rather, he urges them to know how to wait and to prepare themselves to welcome him when he comes. I see in this an invitation to "read the signs of the times" and to keep in mind that, however complex and difficult situations may be, one must not lose trust.