Pope to Swiss Bishops: Be the Body of Christ, not just another NGO 2014-12-02 Vatican Radio (Vatican Radio) Straight off the plane from Turkey, Pope Francis resumed his daily activities at the Vatican Monday morning which included a meeting with Swiss bishops who are on their 5 yearly Ad limina visit. The Pope handed them a pre-prepared text and then greeted them one by one. In the text the Pope praises Switzerland’s history of being at the forefront of working for peace, through its witness to cultural and religious coexistence. He writes “although many citizens are distant from the Church, the majority recognize the positive role played by Catholics and Protestants in the social field”. Here Pope Francis urges the bishops to look back on their nations long Christian tradition – and next year’s celebration of 1500 years of continuous religious life in the iconic Abbey of Saint-Maurice – to keep the faith alive in Switzerland. “Without a living faith in the risen Christ the beautiful churches and monasteries gradually become museums, the commendable works and institutions lose their soul, leaving only empty spaces and lost people”. Pope Francis says the mission entrusted to the bishops is to “feed the flock”. “The people of God cannot be without a shepherd” , he continued and the role of bishops and priests is to serve the unity of the faith and ensure that it is taught according to Church tradition. He urges the bishops to have renewed sense of collegiality as a form of mutual support in their mission and calls on them bishops to have a united and clear voice on society’s ills. This united voice, he writes is important at a time when some people - even within the Church – try to “withhold the realism of the social dimension of the Gospel”. Pope Francis notes that the Gospel has an inherent, original prepositive power and that it’s the pastors’ job to make the full extent of this accessible to people experiencing difficulties in their everyday life – without tarnishing its beauty or weakening its appeal - particularly for people who are searching for meaning in their lives, or those who have turned away from the Church. The Pope comments on how the Gospel is a powerful force to counter a thinking that deliberately denies the transcendent dimension of man, of life and of human relations, especially in the face of suffering and death. Here, he continues, the witness of Christians and parishes can really brighten the way and support the pursuit of happiness for people. In this way, Pope Francis states “the Church in Switzerland will clearly be the Body of Christ, the People of God, and not only a beautiful organization, another NGO”. In the text Pope Francis also observes that the faith we have received from the Lord invites us to reach out to those with whom we come in contact, even if they differ from us in their culture, religion or belief. He notes that “if we believe in the free and generous work of the Spirit, we can better understand each other and work together to better serve society and contribute to peace”. In this ecumenism is a contribution not only to the unity of the Church, but also to the unity of the human family, as it favors a fertile, peaceable and fraternal coexistence. The Pope adds however, that in prayer and in the joint proclamation of the Lord Jesus, we must be careful to allow the faithful of every Christian denomination, to live their faith clearly and free of confusion at the expense of truth without the differences. He warns against an ecumenism which – on the pretext of “a certain accommodation” hides our Eucharistic faith, which implies that we take neither our own “greatest treasure” nor our interlocutor seriously enough. He also encourages the bishops to continue their efforts for the formation of seminarians. “We are talking about a question for the future of the Church” he writes. “She needs priests who have enjoyed a thorough familiarity with the tradition and teaching of the Church of Christ” so they can be increasingly conformed to Him. In the text Pope Francis emphasizes the importance that bishops give time to their priests, especially those who have distanced themselves from their bishop. “A simple, true and fraternal dialogue” he notes can often allow for a new relationship to begin. “The mission of the laity in the Church has an important place, because they contribute to the life of parishes and church institutions, whether as a full-time workers or volunteers”, concludes Pope Francis. He adds that while their commitment and support should be appreciated, clear respect must always be shown for the difference between the common priesthood of the faithful and sacramental priesthood. (from Vatican Radio) http://www.news.va/en/news/pope-to-swiss-bishops-be-the-body-of-christ-not-ju
Pope Mass: a humble heart knows God, theology is done on one’s knees 2014-12-02 Vatican Radio (Vatican Radio) Those who study the mystery of God are brought to their knees because God reveals more to a humble heart. Those were the Pope’s words during his Homily at Mass Tuesday morning at the Casa Santa Martha. The eyes of the poor, said Pope Francis, are most likely to see Christ and, through him, to see the face of God. Others who claim to fathom this mystery with the resources of intelligence must first get down on their "knees", in an attitude of humility , otherwise "they will not understand anything." During his Homily the Pope focused on the Gospel of Luke from the morning’s liturgy, reflecting on Christ’s relationship to the Father, both praising and thanking him. "He makes us know the Father, introduces us to this inner life that He has. And who reveals that the Father? Who gives this grace? 'I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little ones'. Only those whose hearts are like the young are capable of receiving this revelation, the humble of heart, the meek, who feel the need to pray, to open up to God, who feel poor; only he who go forward with the first Beatitude: the poor in spirit. " Therefore, poverty is a privileged gift that opens the door to the mystery of God. A gift that sometimes, noted Pope Francis, that may be lacking in those dedicated to a life of study. "Many may know the science, theology well, so many! But if they do not do this theology on their knees, humbly, like children, they will not understand anything. It will tell them many things, but they will not understand anything. Only with this poverty is one capable of receiving the revelation that the Father gives through Jesus, through Jesus. Jesus is, not like a captain, an army general, a powerful ruler, no, no. He is like a bud. Just like we heard in the First Reading: 'On that day, a shoot shall sprout from the stump of Jesse'. He is a bud that is humble, mild, and came to the humble, and to the meek, to bring salvation to the sick, the poor, the oppressed.” Pope Francis continued by saying that the mystery Jesus is that of humbling oneself. It is a mystery that "brings salvation to the poor, brings comfort to those who are stricken by many diseases, sins and difficult situations." "Out of this context”, concluded Pope Francis you cannot understand the mystery of Jesus": "We ask the Lord, in this Advent season, to bring us nearer to his mystery and to do so the way that He wants us to do: the way of humility, the way of meekness, the way of poverty, the road where we feel sin. So that he can come to save us, to free us. May the Lord give us this grace. " (from Vatican Radio) http://www.news.va/en/news/pope-mass-a-humble-heart-knows-god-theology-is-don
Pope December Prayer Intentions: That Christmas may bring hope to humanity 2014-12-01 As 2014 comes to a close, Pope Francis will dedicate the month's prayers to two specific intentions. First, that Christmas will bring peace and hope, not only to Christians, but to all people of good will. His second intention is for parents, so that they may be authentic evangelizers who can transmit the gift faith to their children. http://www.romereports.com/pg159366...-that-christmas-may-bring-hope-to-humanity-en
Pope: To understand God, one needs a humble heart 2014-12-02 In his Tuesday morning Mass, Pope Francis explained that God makes Himself present in the humble. To truly understand theology, he said, one must first get on one's knees to pray. POPE FRANCIS "Only those whose hearts are like the young are capable of receiving this revelation. The humble of heart, the meek, those who feel the need to pray, to open up to God, those who feel poor. The journey of recognizing our sins. This is how God saves us and liberates us.” The Pope then added that to truly understand God, even theologians can't depend solely on their intelligence, first, he said, one must embrace a humble attitude. The Vatican's former Secretary of State, Tarcisio Bertone, also attended the Mass to celebrate his 80th birthday. SUMMARY OF POPE'S HOMILY: Source: Vatican Radio "He makes us know the Father, introduces us to this inner life that He has. And who reveals that the Father? Who gives this grace? 'I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little ones'. Only those whose hearts are like the young are capable of receiving this revelation, the humble of heart, the meek, who feel the need to pray, to open up to God, who feel poor; only he who go forward with the first Beatitude: the poor in spirit." Therefore, poverty is a privileged gift that opens the door to the mystery of God. A gift that sometimes, noted Pope Francis, that may be lacking in those dedicated to a life of study. "Many may know the science, theology well, so many! But if they do not do this theology on their knees, humbly, like children, they will not understand anything. It will tell them many things, but they will not understand anything. Only with this poverty is one capable of receiving the revelation that the Father gives through Jesus, through Jesus. Jesus is, not like a captain, an army general, a powerful ruler, no, no. He is like a bud. Just like we heard in the First Reading: 'On that day, a shoot shall sprout from the stump of Jesse'. He is a bud that is humble, mild, and came to the humble, and to the meek, to bring salvation to the sick, the poor, the oppressed.” Pope Francis continued by saying that the mystery Jesus is that of humbling oneself. It is a mystery that "brings salvation to the poor, brings comfort to those who are stricken by many diseases, sins and difficult situations." "Out of this context”, concluded Pope Francis you cannot understand the mystery of Jesus": http://www.romereports.com/pg159389-pope-to-understand-god-one-needs-a-humble-heart-en
Pope at Audience: Fruits of pilgrimage to Turkey 6 16 Print 2014-12-03 Vatican Radio (Vatican Radio) Pope Francis had words of praise and thanks for Turkey and the Salesian fathers of Istanbul, for all the good and “hidden” work they do for countless refugees from the Iraqi and Syrian wars. Retracing the steps of his recent pilgrimage to Turkey during his general audience Wednesday, the Pope also highlighted the constant need for prayer on the journey towards full communion with the Orthodox Church and reiterated the importance of Christians and Muslims working together in solidarity for peace. Rain pounded umbrellas in St. Peter’s Square Wednesday, forcing the audience to be split in two – as the Pope himself noted greeting the ‘brave’ pilgrims before him. Before heading out among the thousands in the Square the Pope had first greeted the sick and disabled who were gathered in the Paul VI audience hall, urging them to pray to Jesus this Advent season for the strength to carry on and blessing them before he left. After touring through the square – despite the driving rain – the Pope also invited pilgrims to greet the sick and disabled who were following the catechesis through giant screens with applause. Then he began to speak of his three day trip to Turkey over the weekend, highlighting the ecumenical and interfaith elements of his visit. Below please find a Vatican Radio transcript and translation of the Holy Father’s catechesis: Dear brothers and sisters, good morning. It’s not a great day is it? The weather is quite bad…but you are brave and face it anyway! On we go! This audience is taking place in two different places, as we do when it rains: here in the square and then there are the sick in the Paul VI Hall. I met with them already, I greeted them, and they are following the audience on giant screens, because they are sick and cannot be out in the rain. Let’s greet them there with a round of applause, everyone! Today I would like to share some things with you from my pilgrimage to Turkey from Friday to Sunday last. Today we retrace the steps of the pilgrimage I made to Turkey from Friday to Sunday last. Just as I asked you to prepare for and accompany me on that journey with prayer, today I ask you to give thanks to the Lord for its success and that it may bear fruits of dialogue in our relations with our Orthodox and Muslims brethren, as well as on the path to peace between peoples. Firstly, I feel I must renew my gratitude to the President of the Republic, the Prime Minister, the President for Religious Affairs and other Authorities, who welcomed me with respect and guaranteed the good order of events. I fraternally thank the Bishops of the Catholic Church in Turkey, for their commitment, as well as the Ecumenical Patriarch, His Holiness Bartholomew I, for the warm welcome I received. Blessed Paul VI and John Paul II, who both went to Turkey, and John XXIII, who was Papal Delegate in that nation, protected my pilgrimage from heaven, which took place eight years after that of my predecessor Benedict XVI. That land is dear to every Christian, especially as the birthplace of the Apostle Paul, for having hosted the first seven councils, and for the presence, near Ephesus, of the "House of Virgin Mary". Tradition tells us that the Virgin lived there, after the coming of the Holy Spirit. On the first day of the Apostolic Trip I paid homage at the Mausoleum of Atatürk and I met the authorities of the country, which is overwhelmingly Muslim, but whose constitution establishes it as a secular state. It is forgetfulness of God, and not His glorification, that generates violence. This is why I insisted on the importance of Christians and Muslims working together for solidarity, peace and justice, stating that each State must assure citizens and religious communities real freedom of worship. Today, before going to greet the sick I was with a group of Christians and Muslims who were at a meeting organized by the Council for Interreligious Dialogue, under the leadership of Cardinal Tauran, and they too have expressed this desire to continue in this fraternal dialogue between Catholics, Christians and Muslims. On the second day I visited places that are symbolic of the different faiths in Turkey. I did so, feeling in my heart an invocation to the Lord, the God of heaven and earth, the merciful Father of all humanity. The Eucharistic Celebration was the central focus of that day, which brought together in the Cathedral pastors and faithful of the various Catholic rites in Turkey. The Ecumenical Patriarch, the Armenian Patriarchal Apostolic Vicar, the Syrian Orthodox Metropolitan and representatives Protestant communities also attended. Together we invoked the Holy Spirit, He who generates unity in the Church: unity in faith, unity in charity, unity in inner cohesion. The People of God, in the richness of its traditions and articulations, is called to be guided by the Holy Spirit, in a constant attitude of openness, docility and obedience. Our journey of ecumenical dialogue is also the journey of our unity, of our Catholic Church, it is the Holy Spirit who does all the work. It’s up to us to let him do it, to welcome him and be inspired by him. The third and final day, the Feast of Saint Andrew the Apostle, offered the ideal context to consolidate fraternal relations between the Bishop of Rome, Successor of Peter, and the Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople, which according to tradition is the Church founded by the Apostle Andrew, Simon Peter's brother. Together with His Holiness Bartholomew I, I renewed the mutual commitment to continue on the path towards the restoration of full communion between Catholics and Orthodox. Together we signed a Joint Declaration, a further stage on this journey. It was particularly significant that this act took place at the end of the solemn liturgy of the Feast of St. Andrew, which I attended with great joy, and which was followed by a double Blessing imparted by the Patriarch of Constantinople and by the Bishop of Rome. Indeed, prayer is the basis for any fruitful ecumenical dialogue under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, who as I said, is the one who creates unity. My last meeting – which was both beautiful and painful - was with a group of young refugees, guests of the Salesians. It was very important for me to meet some refugees from the war zones of the Middle East, both to express to them my closeness and that of the Church, and to emphasize the value of welcoming [refugees], an area in which Turkey has also shown a great commitment. I want to thank Turkey once again for its welcoming so many refugees and sincerely thank the Salesians of Istanbul. But, these Salesian who work with refugees, they are so good! I also met other priests and a German Jesuit and others who work with refugees but that Salesian oratory of refugees is a beautiful thing, it is a hidden work. Thank you so much to all of those people who work with refugees. Let us pray for all the refugees and IDPs, and that the causes of this painful scourge be overcome. Dear brothers and sisters, may Almighty and Merciful God continue to protect the Turkish people, their leaders and the representatives of different religions. May they build together a future of peace, so that Turkey can be a place of peaceful coexistence between different religions and cultures. We also pray that through the intercession of the Virgin Mary, the Holy Spirit will make this Apostolic Journey fruitful and favor missionary fervor in the Church, to announce to all peoples, in respect and fraternal dialogue, that the Lord Jesus is truth, peace and love. He alone is the Lord. Thank You. (from Vatican Radio)
Pope meets with participants of the Christian and Muslim Summit 2014-12-03 Pope Francis led the third Christian and Muslim Summit in the Vatican. It's a way to strengthen the ties and understanding between both religions. POPE FRANCIS "This helps us strengthen our fraternity. Thank you for all the work you do. For this work that helps us understand one another better. For promoting peace. For dialogue. Thank you.” One by one, Pope Francis greeted all those in attendance, which included people from Iraq, Turkey and Jordan. In fact, the prince of Jordan, El Hassan bin Talal, was also there and he exchanged a few words with the Pope. Jordan is known for welcoming refugees, many of whom are Christians neighboring countries. Since coming back from Turkey, the Pope has emphasized the importance of having governments respect religious freedom and also the need to improve the understanding between Christians and Muslims. http://www.romereports.com/pg159397...cipants-of-the-christian-and-muslim-summit-en
Anglican leader joins Pope Francis for anti-slavery initiative 2014-12-04 Vatican Radio (Vatican Radio) The Anglican Archbishop of Canterbury and leader of the global Anglican Communion, Justin Welby was among the numerous religious representatives who flew in from around the world on Tuesday for the signing of a joint declaration against modern slavery in the Vatican. The initiative, promoted by the Global Freedom Network and the Pontifical Academy of Sciences, grew out of a first meeting of the Anglican leader with Pope Francis in 2013. Since then Orthodox, Muslim, Jewish, Buddhist and Hindu leaders have all joined the campaign to stamp out the scourge of human trafficking. Following the signing of the declaration, Philippa Hitchen joined other journalists to ask Archbishop Welby about the practical implications of this historic occasion…. Listen: Archbishop Welby says while the event in the Vatican was a unique event, bringing together so many different religious leaders, it's also crucial to build on that momentum with a programme of implemention and he says he believes the Global Freedom Network has the ability to do that..... In the Church of England, he says, two dioceses are already very involved in teaching and training people in awareness of this issue to help people ask questions of how they invest, where they buy things from and where those goods might be made..... In the modern slavery bill currently going through the British parliament, he notes, there are obligations on retailers to look at their supply chains....the Anglican leader also says he's been involved in running ethical funds and has seen first hand the impact that they can have on pressuring retailers to stop the use of slavery in the manufacturing supply chains.... (from Vatican Radio) http://www.news.va/en/news/anglican-leader-joins-pope-francis-for-anti-slaver
Pope's Mass: There are many 'hidden saints' who live out the Gospel in their daily lives 2014-12-04 In his Thursday morning Mass, Pope Francis talked about so called 'hidden saints.' Men, women, parents, religious and every day people who live out the Gospel and give hope. POPE FRANCIS "Let's think about all the priests who don't publicize it, but who work in their parishes with great love: Teaching catechesis to children, caring for the elderly, the sick, and preparing newlywed couples...Every day it's the same, the same, the same. They don't get bored because their foundation is solid like a rock. It's Jesus. This is what gives Holiness to the Church. This is what gives hope!” The Pope then added that being Christian is about more than just appearances. Rather, its about living the Gospel in every day life. SUMMARY OF POPE'S HOMILY (Source: Vatican Radio) "Let us consider so many priests who are not seen, but who work in their parishes with such love: [doing the work of] catechesis for children, care of the elderly, of the sick, the preparation of new spouses… and every day the same, the same, the same. They are not bored because their foundation is the rock. It is Jesus, it this that gives holiness to the Church, it is this that gives hope!” "We should think about so much hidden holiness there is in the Church,” Pope Francis said, "Christians who remain in Jesus. Sinners, eh? We are all [sinners]. And yet sometimes one of these Christians commits some grave sin, but is penitent, seeks pardon, and this is great: the capacity to seek pardon, to not confuse sin with virtue, to know well where virtue is, and where sin is. These are founded on rock, and the rock is Christ. They follow the path of Christ, they follow Him.” "The proud, the vain, the ‘Christians in appearance’ will be demolished, humbled,” the Pope said, while " the poor will be those who triumph, the poor in spirit, those who in the presence of God consider themselves to be nothing, the humble, and they carry forward salvation, putting into practice the Word of the Lord.” He continued, citing St Bernard: "Today we are, tomorrow we will not be. Think, man, what will become of you: [you will be] the food of worms… The worms will eat us, all of us. If we do not have this rock, we will end up trampled down.” http://www.romereports.com/pg159402...o-live-out-the-gospel-in-their-daily-lives-en
Pope to Volunteers: Don't use the poor to make money 2014-12-04 Drum rolls greeted Pope Francis as he walked in the Vatican's Paul VI Hall. It was an audience between the Pope and a large group of Italian volunteers who fight against poverty and social exclusion. They are members of the Federation of Christian Organizations for International Volunteer Service. In his speech, the Pope thanked them for their work. POPE FRANCIS "It's quite necessary to give witness to the value of gratuity. The poor should not be used to make a profit.” He then explained that poverty makes itself present in more ways than one. He then called for solidarity. POPE FRANCIS "It's about fighting against the structural causes of poverty: The lack of social equality, the lack of work and of housing. Also, the rejection of social rights for workers.” Once he gave his address, the Pope also took time to greet some of the 5,000 participants from the group, which is actually the biggest of its kind in Italy. http://www.romereports.com/pg159407-pope-to-volunteers-don-t-use-the-poor-to-make-money-en
Pope: voluntary workers are builders of peace and harmony 2014-12-05 Vatican Radio (Vatican Radio) Pope Francis thanked voluntary workers across the globe describing their work with men and women in difficulty as a living witness of the tenderness of Christ, who walks with humanity in every era. Listen to the report by Linda Bordoni: Speaking to members of FOCSIV, an International Federation of Christian Voluntary Workers whom he received in audience on International Volunteer Day (December 5), the Pope says voluntary workers offer an image of a Church that rolls up its shirt sleeves and bows to serve its brothers and sisters in difficulty. SOLIDARITY Pointing out the fact that poverty must never be an occasion for someone else’s gain, the Pope invited voluntary workers to persevere on their unselfish path. He notes the changing face of poverty in a world in which – the Pope said – the poor themselves want to become protagonists of their lives putting into practice solidarity amongst those who suffer. He told the volunteers that they are called to take notice of the signs of the times and to become instruments at the service of the activism of the poor. Solidarity, he said, is a way to make history together with the poor, turning away from alleged altruistic works that reduce the other to passivity. ENVIRONMENT The Pope points to an economic system that ransacks nature as one of the main causes of poverty. Mentioning deforestation, environmental catastrophes and the loss of biodiversity in particular, Pope Francis says it is necessary to remember that creation is not “property of which we can dispose of to our benefit, and less still is it the property of few”. Creation – he says – is “a wonderful gift that God has given us to take care of and utilize for the benefit of all, with respect”. And he encouraged volunteers to continue in their commitment “to safeguard creation so that we can hand it over to future generation in all of its beauty”. CONFLICT Other causes of poverty the Pope singles out are tied to “the scandal of war”. He says that working for development, volunteers cooperate in the making of peace and the building of bridges between cultures and religions. He says that even in the most difficult situations voluntary workers are sustained by their faith; he says their presence and their activities in refugees camps are a tangible sign of hope for so many people in the world who “fleeing from the horrors of war, or persecuted for their faith, are forced to abandon their homes, their places of prayer, their lands, their dear ones! How many broken lives! How much pain and destruction!” Before all of this – Pope Francis says – “the disciple of Christ does not turn the other way, but tries to take some of the burden from suffering people with his closeness and evangelical welcome”. MIGRANTS AND REFUGEES Finally the Pope turns his thoughts to migrants and refugees who attempt to leave harsh conditions of life and dangerous situations behind them. And pointing to the necessary collaboration of all: institutions, NGOs and ecclesial communities to promote new policies and measures for peaceful cohabitation, he calls on the commitment of States to effectively manage and regulate these phenomenona. The Pope’s message comes on International Volunteer Day during which an annual Prize is awarded. This year the Award went to Maria Luisa Cortinovis: wife, mother, grandmother, teacher and missionary. She received the Prize during a ceremony held at Vatican Radio. (from Vatican Radio)
Pope Francis: The Church needs more female theologians 2014-12-05 The International Theological Commission introduced its five year study plan to Pope Francis. It's a period where respected theologians investigate key issues even further and then advise the Pope on these matters. The president of the Commission is German Cardinal Gerhard Müller. "In this plenary session, members have chosen the topics they will study in this quinquennium.” Currently the Commission has 30 members, of which only five are women. The Pope emphasized that more female theologians are needed. POPE FRANCIS "In the ever more diverse make up of the Commission, I want to see a higher presence of women...We're still not there yet. They're the strawberries on the cake, but we need more of them.” The Pope then highlighted what women can contribute something unique to the world of theology. POPE FRANCIS "Female theologians can shed light, for the good of everyone, on certain unexplored and profound aspects of the mystery of Christ. I invite all of you to take advantage of these specific contributions women can make in matters of faith.” For the next five years, this Commission will study religious liberty, the relationship between faith and the Sacraments. http://www.romereports.com/pg159437-pope-francis-the-church-needs-more-female-theologians-en
Pope: Message to Festival of the Family participants 2014-12-05 Vatican Radio (Vatican Radio) Pope Francis has sent a Message to the organizers and participants in the Festival of the Family taking place on the shore of Lake Garda in north-central Italy on Friday. “The future of humanity depends upon the family,” writes the Holy Father in his Message, “and it is therefore necessary to allow [the family] to play its role,” in society. The theme of the gathering is: the ecosystem of life and work. “It is not enough to reiterate the importance of the family and to affirm its rights,” continues Pope Francis’ Message, “it is necessary to consider how the tasks of the family and of society can be structured in real terms, especially with regard to the relationship between professional life and family life.” The Message goes on to treat of public policy in relation to families, the social and legal status of the family in general, the assistance that should be offered to those who are materially or morally disadvantaged, and the attention that should be given to women in the workplace. “We must ensure that women are not, for economic reasons, compelled to undertake too heavy a burden or accept excessive working hours, which are then added to all their responsibilities in housekeeping and raising children,” explains the Holy Father. “Above all,” he writes, “it is necessary to recognise that women’s work, at all levels of family life, also constitutes an unparalleled contribution to the family and the future of society.” (from Vatican Radio) http://www.news.va/en/news/pope-message-to-festival-of-the-family-participant
Pope Angelus: Advent, a time of hope 2014-12-07 Vatican Radio (Vatican Radio) Pope Francis during the Angelus from the window of his studio above St Peter’s Square recalled the second Sunday of Advent saying that it was a wonderful time "that awakens in us the expectation of Christ's return and the memory of his historic coming." Listen to Lydia O'Kane's report Focusing on the day’s liturgy the Holy Father said that it presents us with a hopeful message. Quoting from the Book of Isaiah "Comfort, give comfort to my people, the Pope explained this reading is about a time of joyful liberation and salvation, and a time of looking ahead with confidence to the future He went on to say that Isaiah refers to people who went through a dark period, but now the time for comfort has come. Sadness and fear give way to joy, said Pope Francis because the Lord himself leads his people to the path of liberation and salvation. But, the Pope also underlined that we cannot be messengers of God's comfort if we do not experience the joy of being comforted and loved by Him. This, he said, is especially the case when we listen to the Gospel, that people, the Holy Father stressed, need to carry in their pocket. Pope Francis noted that Isaiah's message of comfort, that resounds on this second Sunday of Advent, is a balm on our wounds and an incentive to diligently prepare the way of the Lord. Many situations, said the Pope, require our comforting witness. “I am thinking about those who are oppressed by suffering, injustice and oppression, about those who are slaves to money, power, success, and worldliness. We are all called to console our brothers, testifying that only God can eliminate the causes of existential and spiritual dramas." This prophet, he continued, speaks to our hearts today to tell us that God forgets our sins and comforts us if we entrust ourselves to Him a with humble and repentant heart. God, said Pope Francis,"will bring down the walls of evil, will fill the holes of our omissions, will flatten the bumps of pride and vanity, and will pave the way for our meeting with him." http://www.news.va/en/news/pope-angelus-advent-a-time-of-hope
Pope Francis: Demotion of Burke not ‘punishment’ View attachment 2448 http://www.cruxnow.com/church/2014/12/07/pope-francis-demotion-of-burke-not-punishment/
Pope Francis: Everything is a grace, a gift given freely by God 2014-12-08 Vatican Radio (Vatican Radio) Before the recitation of the Angelus in St Peter’s Square on Monday, Pope Francis devoted his address to the Virgin Mary on the feast of the Immaculate Conception. He said that this feast can be summed up in these words: everything is grace, everything is a gift given freely by God, because of His love for us. The Holy Father explained that the Angel Gabriel calls Mary "full of grace" because in her there is no room for sin. God, he said, had always chosen her to be the mother of Jesus, and had preserved her from original sin. The Pope went on to say that Mary responds to this grace and abandons herself saying to the angel : "Let it be done to me according to your word". Pope Francis underlined that “we too are asked to listen to God speaking to us and to welcome his will. He also noted that the attitude of Mary of Nazareth shows us that being comes before doing, and that we must leave it to God to truly be what He wants us to be. Mary, said Pope Francis is receptive, but not passive. On a physical level, she receives the power of the Holy Spirit but then gives flesh and blood to the Son of God that is formed in her, so that, on a spiritual level, she welcomes the grace and corresponds to it with faith. Speaking to the crowds present in St Peter’s Square, the Holy Father stressed that as we have received for free, so we are called to give freely in imitation of Mary, who, immediately after welcoming the announcement from the Angel Gabriel, goes to share this gift with her cousin Elizabeth. Because, said the Pope, if everything is given to us, everything must be given back, this means, by letting the Holy Spirit make us a gift for others; that makes us become instruments of acceptance, reconciliation and forgiveness. The Pope also stressed, in off the cuff remarks, that no one can buy salvation. Salvation is a gift given freely by God who comes to us and lives in us. Following the recitation of the Marian Prayer, Pope Francis reminded the faithful that he would be going to Spanish Steps in the centre of Rome on Monday afternoon to renew the traditional act of homage and prayer at the foot of the monument to the Immaculate. (from Vatican Radio)
Pope Francis to meet with large families on December 28 2014-12-09 On December 28th, Pope Francis will meet with more than 500 large families at the Vatican's Paul VI Hall. The date of the meeting marks the Feast of the Holy Family. The Italian Large Families Association organizes the event to celebrate its 10th anniversary. Participation is not limited to Italian families: any large family can attend by registering on the association's website.
Pope Francis pays homage to Our Lady at Piazza di Spagna 2014-12-09 Vatican Radio (Vatican Radio) One of the highlights of the Feast of the Immaculate Conception in Rome is the visit of the Pope to Piazza di Spagna where he traditionally pays homage to the statue of Our Lady that commemorates the proclamation of the dogma in 1854. Listen to Seàn-Patrick Lovett's report The statue of Our Lady stands above a 12-metre high ancient Roman column that dominates the bustling shopping area of Rome’s historic centre. It was placed here on September 8th 1857 and commemorates Pope Pius IX’s proclamation of the dogma of the Immaculate Conception which states that Mary was conceived without original sin. The column and statue were originally erected with the help of 220 firemen, which is why the floral tributes always include a garland of flowers placed in Our Lady’s arms by a member of Rome’s fire department. The tradition of offering flowers to her image here on this feast day was begun by Pope Pius XII. Traffic stopped and holiday-makers paused to catch a glimpse of Pope Francis as he arrived in Piazza di Spagna with his own massive bouquet of white roses which was placed at the foot of the column. Before singing the litanies of the Blessed Virgin, the Pope invoked Mary’s “maternal protection on us, our families, this city and the whole world”. As we approach Christmas, he prayed, “teach us to go against the flow, to strip ourselves, to be humble and giving, to listen and be silent, to go out of ourselves, giving space to the beauty of God, source of true joy.” The brief ceremony concluded with the Pope immediately putting into practice what he’d just said by spending time greeting groups of aged and disabled people – plus kissing several babies, of course. http://www.news.va/en/news/pope-francis-pays-homage-to-our-lady-at-piazza-di
Pope Francis urges world towards nuclear disarmament 2014-12-09 Vatican Radio (Vatican Radio) Pope Francis said on Monday “nuclear weapons are a global problem affecting all nations and impacting future generations and the planet that is our home.” His words were read out at the Conference on the Humanitarian Impact of Nuclear Weapons which was taking place in Vienna on December 8-9. “Nuclear deterrence and the threat of mutually assured destruction cannot be the basis for an ethics of fraternity and peaceful coexistence among peoples and states,” writes Pope Francis. “Then youth of today and tomorrow deserve far more. They deserve a peaceful world order based on the unity of the human family, grounded on respect, cooperation, solidarity and compassion. Now is the time to counter the logic of fear with the ethics of responsibility, and so foster a climate of trust and sincere dialogue.” The full text of the Message of Pope Francis is below Message from Pope Francis to His Excellency Mr Sebastian Kurz Federal Minister For Europe, Integration and Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Austria President of the Conference on the Humanitarian Impact of Nuclear Weapons I am pleased to greet you Mr President, and all the representatives from various nations and international organisations as well as civil society, who are participating in the Vienna Conference on the Humanitarian Impact of Nuclear Weapons. Nuclear weapons are a global problem affecting all nations and impacting future generations and the planet that is our home. A global ethic is needed if we are to reduce the nuclear threat and work towards nuclear disarmament. Now, more than ever, technological, social and political interdependence urgently calls for an ethic of solidarity (cf John Paul II, Sollicitudo Rei Socialis, 38), which encourages people to work together for a more secure world, and a future that is increasingly rooted in moral values and responsibility on a global scale. The humanitarian consequences of nuclear weapons are predictable and planetary. While the focus is often placed on nuclear weapons' potential for mass killing, more attention must be given to the "unnecessary suffering" brought on by their use. Military codes and international law, among others, have long banned peoples from inflicting unnecessary suffering. If such suffering is banned in the waging of conventional war, then it should all the more be banned in nuclear conflict. There are those among us who are victims of these weapons; they warn us not to commit the same irreparable mistakes which have devastated populations and creation. I extend warm greetings to the Hibakusha, as well as other victims of nuclear weapons testing who are present at this meeting. I encourage them all to be prophetic voices, calling the human family to a deeper appreciation of beauty, love, cooperation and fraternity, while reminding the world of the risks of nuclear weapons which have the potential to destroy us and civilization. Nuclear deterrence and the threat of mutually assured destruction cannot be the basis for an ethics of fraternity and peaceful coexistence among peoples and states. Then youth of today and tomorrow deserve far more. They deserve a peaceful world order based on the unity of the human family, grounded on respect, cooperation, solidarity and compassion. Now is the time to counter the logic of fear with the ethics of responsibility, and so foster a climate of trust and sincere dialogue. Spending on nuclear weapons squanders the wealth of nations. To prioritise such spending is a mistake and a misallocation of resources which would be far better invested in the areas of integral human development, education, health and the fight against extreme poverty. When these resources are squandered, the poor and the weak living on the margins of society pay the price. The desire for peace, security and stability is one of the deepest longings of the human heart. It is rooted in the Creator who makes all people members of the one human family. This desire can never be satisfied by military means alone, much less the possession of nuclear weapons and other weapons of mass destruction. Peace cannot "be reduced solely to maintain a balance of power between enemies; nor is it brought about by dictatorship" (Gaudium et Spes, 78). Peace must be built on justice, socio-economic development, freedom, respect for fundamental human rights, the participation of all in public affairs and the building of trust between peoples. Pope Paul VI stated this succinctly in his Encyclical Populorum Progressio: "Development is the new name for peace" (76). It is incumbent on us to adopt concrete actions which promote peace and security, while remaining always aware of the limitation of short-sighted approaches to problems of national and international security. We must be profoundly committed to strengthening mutual trust, for only through such trust can true and lasting peace among nations be established (cf John XXIII, Pacem in Terris, 113). In the context of this Conference, I wish to encourage sincere and open dialogue between parties internal to each nuclear state, between various nuclear states, and between nuclear states and non-nuclear states, This dialogue must be inclusive, involving international organisations, religious communities and civil society, and oriented towards the common good and not the protection of vested interests. "A world without nuclear weapons" is a goal shared by all nationals and echoed by world leaders, as well as the aspiration of millions of men and women. The future and the survival of the human family hinges on moving beyond this ideal and ensuring that it becomes a reality. I am convinced that the desire for peace and fraternity planted deep in the human heart will bear fruit in concrete ways to ensure that nuclear weapons are banned once and for all, to the benefit of our common home. The security of our own future depends on guaranteeing the peaceful security of others, for if peace, security and stability are not established globally, they will not be enjoyed at all. Individually and collectively , we are responsible for the present and future well-being of our brothers and sisters. It is my great hope that this responsibility will inform our efforts in favour of nuclear disarmament, for a world without nuclear weapons is truly possibly. http://www.news.va/en/news/pope-francis-urges-world-towards-nuclear-disarmame
Pope Francis: Church's joy is to be a mother 2014-12-09 Vatican Radio (Vatican Radio) The joy of the Church is to be a mother, to go out and seek the lost sheep. That was the message of Pope Francis during Tuesday’s morning Mass at the Casa Santa Marta. The Pope said that the Church does not need to have “a perfect organizational chart” if that would make her sorrowful and closed on herself, if that would make her “not a mother.” He then invited his listeners to be “joyful Christians,” with the “consolation of the tenderness of Jesus.” Listen to Christopher Wells' report: “Open the doors to the consolation of the Lord.” In this passage, which served as the starting point for the Pope’s homily, Isaiah is speaking about the end of the tribulation of Israel after the Babylonian exile. “The people,” Pope Francis said, “have need of consolation. The very presence of the Lord consoles [them].” It is one consolation that is with them even in tribulation. And yet, he warned, “we usually flee from consolation; we have no confidence; we are more comfortable in our stuff, we are more comfortable even in our failures, in our sins.” This, he said, “is our country.” On the other hand, the Pope continued, “when the Spirit comes, consolation comes as well, and bears us to another state that we cannot control: this is precisely abandonment in the consolation of the Lord.” Pope Francis emphasized that “the greatest consolation is that of mercy and forgiveness.” He then turned his thoughts to Ezekiel, chapter 16, when, after so many sins of the people, our Lord says, “I will never abandon you; I will give you more; this will be my revenge: consolation and pardon.” This, the Pope said, is our God.” For this reason, he said, “it is good to repeat: allow yourselves to be consoled by the Lord; He alone can console us.” And we should do so even if “we are used to ‘renting’ small consolations of our own making,” but that simply “doesn’t work.” The Holy Father then spoke about the parable of the lost sheep, from the day’s Gospel: “I ask myself, what is the consolation of the Church? Just as an individual is consoled when he feels the mercy and forgiveness of the Lord, the Church rejoices and is happy when she goes out of herself. In the Gospel, the pastor who goes out goes to seek the lost sheep – he could keep accounts like a good businessman. [He could say]: ‘Ninety-nine sheep, if I lose one, it’s no problem; the balance sheet – gains and losses. But it’s fine, we can get by.’ No, he has the heart of a shepherd, he goes out and searches for [the lost sheep] until he finds it, and then he rejoices, he is joyful. “The joy of going out to seek the brothers and sisters who are far off: This is the joy of the Church. Here the Church becomes a mother, becomes fruitful”: “When the Church does not do this, then the Church stops herself, is closed in on herself, even if she is well organized, has a perfect organizational chart, everything’s fine, everything’s tidy – but she lacks joy, she lacks peace, and so she becomes a disheartened Church, anxious, sad, a Church that seems more like a spinster than a mother, and this Church doesn’t work, it is a Church in a museum. The joy of the Church is to give birth; the joy of the Church is to go out of herself to give life; the joy of the Church is to go out to seek the sheep that are lost; the joy of the Church is precisely the tenderness of the shepherd, the tenderness of the mother.” The end of the passage from Isaiah, he explained, again takes up this image: “Like a shepherd he feeds his flock; in his arms he gathers the lambs.” This, the Pope said, “is the joy of the Church, to go out of herself and to become fruitful.” “May the Lord give us the grace of working, of being joyful Christians in the fruitfulness of Mother Church, and keep us from falling into the attitude of these sad Christians, impatient, disheartened, anxious, that have all the perfection in the Church, but do not have ‘children.’ May the Lord console us with the consolation of a Mother Church that goes out of herself and consoles us with the consolation of the tenderness of Jesus and His mercy in the forgiveness of our sins.” http://www.news.va/en/news/pope-francis-churchs-joy-is-to-be-a-mother
Pope Francis explains what happened during the Synod of the Family 2014-12-10 (-ONLY VIDEO-) During his weekly general audience, Pope Francis shed light on the recent Synod of the Family, which took place back in October. The Pope said Bishops were free to discuss all topics since there was no censorship to limit them. He went even further adding that no one in the Synod, questioned the 'fundamental truths about marriage.' SUMMARY OF THE POPE'S CATECHESIS Dear Brothers and Sisters, This morning we begin a new series of catecheses devoted to the family. As you know, the pastoral challenges involving the family were discussed in a recent meeting of the Synod of Bishops in preparation for the next Ordinary Assembly of the Synod in October, 2015. The meeting began with a very frank discussion of those serious challenges, in the light of the fundamental truths about the sacrament of Matrimony – its indissolubility, unity, fidelity and openness to life. The fruits of this period of discussion and discernment were collected in a preliminary report, which was then discussed in smaller groups. The observations and suggestions which emerged were incorporated in a Final Report, which served as the basis for the Final Message of the Synod Fathers. The Final Report is being sent to the Bishops throughout the world, and the results of this consultation will be brought to the Synod meeting next October. I ask all of you to pray, through the intercession of Mary, Mother of the Church, that the Synod process will result in pastoral decisions truly beneficial to the family, the Church and society. I greet the English-speaking pilgrims and visitors taking part in today’s Audience, including the groups from Denmark, Nigeria, Australia and the United States of America. Upon all of you, and your families, I invoke joy and peace in the Lord Jesus. God bless you all! http://www.romereports.com/pg159473...at-happened-during-the-synod-of-the-family-en
