Vatican News: Fratelli Tutti | New Outlook

The papal encyclical Fratelli Tutti begins

"With these words, Saint Francis of Assisi addressed his brothers and sisters and proposed to them a way of life marked by the flavour of the Gospel." - Fratelli Tutti, par. 1

The encyclical then acknowledges two figures who helped shape the message of Fratelli Tutti:
 

Issues of human fraternity and social friendship have always been a concern of mine. In recent years, I have spoken of them repeatedly and in different settings. In this Encyclical, I have sought to bring together many of those statements and to situate them in a broader context of reflection. In the preparation of Laudato Si’, I had a source of inspiration in my brother Bartholomew, the Orthodox Patriarch, who has spoken forcefully of our need to care for creation. In this case, I have felt particularly encouraged by the Grand Imam Ahmad Al-Tayyeb, with whom I met in Abu Dhabi, where we declared that “God has created all human beings equal in rights, duties and dignity, and has called them to live together as brothers and sisters”. This was no mere diplomatic gesture, but a reflection born of dialogue and common commitment. The present Encyclical takes up and develops some of the great themes raised in the Document that we both signed. I have also incorporated, along with my own thoughts, a number of letters, documents and considerations that I have received from many individuals and groups throughout the world. - Fratelli Tutti, par. 6.

It is not possible to understand Fratelli Tutti without reference to the ongoing work of defusing international tensions that has characterized this papacy. Please study these articles to understand the intent and scope of Fratelli Tutti.