Gathering for Compassion and Action—Your Weekly Reflection
This past week, leaders from around the world gathered in New York City for the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). Here at CMMB, we were energized by the opportunity to join conversations with global partners, government representatives, and fellow advocates to bring our faith-driven perspective to some of the most pressing health challenges of our time.
Today’s Gospel reminds us that faith calls us to act with compassion, empathy, and ethical responsibility—especially when it comes to protecting and promoting healthcare. We envision a world where health and dignity are shared by all, regardless of borders or circumstance. Yet far too many people still face life-threatening disparities. Imagine a loved one unable to access the medicine they need to manage diabetes or keep their heart healthy.
Chronic diseases like hypertension and diabetes are now the leading cause of death and disability worldwide, responsible for 74% of all deaths, with 77% occurring in low- and middle-income countries—and these numbers continue to rise. Our conversations at UNGA reinforced the urgent need for collaboration, innovation, and sustained commitment. Our own manager of Kenya’s Noncommunicable Disease (NCD) Initiative shared the story of CMMB’s work on a widely attended panel and outlined what needs to happen in the world’s response to NCDs.
“NCDs require the same level of commitment and urgency as infectious diseases,” Jesse shared. “Health workers are at the center of it all. We need to ensure that our health workers are equipped, supported, and facilitated to be able to respond to the NCD crisis.”
As today’s Gospel teaches, those with the ability to act for the good of others are called to do so with purpose and integrity. Just as the wealthy man in the parable is reminded of his responsibility to Lazarus, we too are reminded that our actions—or inaction—have consequences. At CMMB, we remain committed to turning faith into action, ensuring that the most vulnerable have access to the care they need, and that no life is overlooked.
