The leader of Catholics told believers not to be indifferent to others but to act as instruments of change.
Speaking at his General Audience on Wednesday he encouraged believers to perform "gestures of great humanity".
Pope Francis also told those gathered that Jesus suffered in prison for humankind.
He said: "Whatever act a prison inmate may have committed, he remains beloved by God."
Vatican Radio also reported that the pontiff said the best medicine for the ill was comfort and kindness.
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