The right to life is threatened in those places where the death penalty is legal. The death penalty cannot be used for a supposed State justice, since it is not a deterrent, nor does it render justice to victims, but only fuels vengeance. #EndDeathPenalty
Friends, the news of the attacks upon the Holy Land and its people makes my heart ache. As Christians we believe that God in Christ accepted for himself a human nature and chose for himself the flesh and blood of an Israelite. We believe that in doing so he extended the promise he made to Abraham, the Law he gave to Moses, and the words of the Prophets as the common moral and spiritual heritage of humanity. It is this heritage that serves as the foundation for our civilization. Further, our identity and mission as Christians is inextricably linked to that of the Israelites for we believe that in Christ we have truly become one family. Throughout my life I have prayed for the peace and protection of Jerusalem, and I ask that you join me in this prayer in this hour of need.
I invite all people of good will to help the people of #Afghanistan, who are suffering after the devastating earthquake that hit them. Let us contribute in a spirit of fraternity to alleviate the sufferings of the people and supporting the necessary reconstruction.
Saint #FrancisofAssisi, in a time of great struggles and divisions, did not criticize or lash out at anyone. He took up solely the weapons of the Gospel: humility and unity, prayer and charity. Let us do the same!
Our Lord Jesus Christ who alone is our Savior is not at the root and center of synodality. The divine nature of the Church in its foundation and in its organic and enduring life is neglected and, in truth, forgotten. https://t.co/fjQqR6lZwQ
Friends, yesterday’s inaugural Mass for the synod was quite beautiful. Pope Francis celebrated the Mass in St. Peter’s Square with all the synod delegates and a large crowd of the faithful present. He again emphasized that the synod is not a parliament or a debating society, and that the protagonist, the chief actor, is the Holy Spirit.
Jesus’ gaze that blesses invites us to be a Church that does not face today’s challenges and problems with a divisive and contentious spirit but, turns its eyes to God who is communion and, with awe and humility, blesses and adores him, recognizing him as its only Lord. #Synod
Let’s #PrayTogether for the dear people of Morocco, stricken by a devastating earthquake. I pray for the injured, for those who have lost their lives, and for their relatives. I thank the rescuers and those who are working to alleviate the suffering of the people.
Proclaiming Christ unites, not divides. The shared proclamation of our Lord evangelizes the ecumenical journey itself. Let us journey together in prayer which purifies us, in charity which unites us, in dialogue which brings us closer together. #UnityOfChristians
Many countries are experiencing extreme climatic events. I reiterate my appeal to the leaders of Nations, that something more tangible be done to limit polluting emissions: it is an urgent challenge and affects everyone. Let us protect our common home!
I renew my invitation for everyone – dioceses, parishes, associations and communities – to celebrate the 3rd World Day for #GrandparentsAndElderly on Sunday, focusing on the joyful encounter between young and old. #laityfamilylife
Let us never abandon the elderly. Their presence in our families and communities is precious, for they remind us that we share the same heritage and are part of a people committed to preserving our roots. #GrandparentsAndElderly#laityfamilylife
Prayer to St. Michael the Archangel
Saint Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle. Be our protection against the wickedness and snares of the devil; May God rebuke him, we humbly pray; And do thou, O Prince of the Heavenly Host, by the power of God, thrust into hell Satan...
Holy women and men do not have easier lives than others. On the contrary, they are often objects of opposition. But through #prayer, they nourish the flame of their faith, as oil used to do for lamps. And thus, they move ahead walking in faith and hope.
Education does not consist in filling heads with ideas, but in accompanying and encouraging students on a journey of human and spiritual growth, showing them how friendship with the Risen Jesus enlarges the heart and makes life more human. #GeneralAudience
We are the dust of the earth, upon which God has poured out His heaven, the dust that contains His dreams. We are God’s hope, His treasure, and His Glory.
Amidst the hardships and difficulties of the missions, may the commitment and example of Saint Francis Xavier help us discover the deep joy of the missionary, happy to bring Christ to the farthest ends of the earth. #GeneralAudience
When you pray, don’t be afraid to bring everything going on inside you to Jesus: emotions, fears, problems, expectations, memories, hopes. Prayer is dialogue. Prayer is life. #ApostolicJourney#Hungary