November 9, 2011. (Romereports.com) Benedict XVI spoke about celibacy during his general audience. It was the main theme for his reflections on Psalm 119, in which the author gives up everything for God.
 
“It is in this light that we can understand the free choice of celibacy for the Kingdom of heaven, which must be rediscovered in all its beauty and power,” said the pope.


In his catechesis, the pope explained that Psalm 119 is the longest in the Bible and is an acrostic puzzle. Each verse begins with one of the 22 letters of the Hebrew alphabet. The psalm speaks of God's law, which must be the guide for every Christian.

Benedict XVI
“Christians see in the Blessed Virgin Mary the model of this loving docility to God’s will, and in Jesus the fulfillment of the Law. A striking example of the Psalmist’s devotion is seen in his words: 'The Lord is my portion.'”

At the end of the meeting, the pope called for support to those affected by storms in Central America and Southeast Asia, which have caused hundreds of deaths.

Benedict XVI
“I ask for prayers for the victims and their families and call for solidarity, for institutions and people of good will to work together with generosity to help the thousands of victims of these disasters.”

There was also a group of pilgrims from the pope's native Germany that played Bavarian music in St. Peter's Square.


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