Diocese of Urgell calls for rural revitalisation in Oliana, Spain

Bishop Josep‑Lluís of the Diocese of Urgell addressed the faithful of the parish of Sant Andreu d’Oliana, urging a collective response to the social and economic challenges facing the rural valley of the Segre. The letter proposes four priority actions: creating a volunteer network to support isolated elderly residents; promoting labour justice and opportunities for young people through support of local farming, small‑scale commerce and enterprises; welcoming new families and migrant workers with integration programmes and charitable assistance; and lobbying public authorities to preserve affordable housing, decent infrastructure and essential public services in the countryside.

The bishop emphasizes that defending the dignity of rural life requires both community initiative and pressure on administrations to avoid abandoning the area, positioning the Church as an active partner in seeking social justice for the region.