This issue of Catholic Update addresses the concept of solidarity with the world's poor and suffering—not as some intellectual idea or precept but as a real, spiritual and emotional connection between human beings. "When we hear of the extreme hardships of others, our response is often to give thanks to God for the lives that we have," Giblin writes. "But we also know that gratitude to God, this God 'who hears the cry of the poor,' can best be demonstrated by solidarity with others—reaching out to help and learn and build community among us all."