Pope Francis dedicated his weekly catechesis to the spiritual life of the Christian. In front of 4,000 pilgrims in the Paul VI Audience Hall of the Vatican, he reminded them that spiritual life is a continuous struggle.
Pope Francis explained that “life is full of trials” and that the sacrament of confession provides clarity to distinguish good from evil.
SUMMARY OF THE POPE'S CATECHESIS IN ENGLISH:
Dear brothers and sisters:
In our catechesis on the virtues and the vices opposed to them, we have seen that the Christian life involves a constant struggle to resist sin and to grow in holiness. Jesus, himself sinless, submitted to baptism by John and was tempted in the desert, in order to teach us the need for spiritual rebirth, conversion of mind and heart, and unfailing trust in God’s mercy and sustaining grace.
May our weekly reflections on the virtues and vices help us to imitate the Lord’s example, to grow in wisdom and self-understanding, and to discern between good and evil. As we advance in the knowledge and practice of the virtues, may we come to experience the joy of closeness to God, the source of all good, authentic happiness and the fullness of eternal life.
I extend a warm welcome to the English-speaking pilgrims and visitors taking part in today’s Audience, especially the groups from Malta and the United States of America. May you and your families cherish the joy of this Christmas season, and draw near in prayer to the Saviour who has come to dwell among us. God bless you!
PA
TR: AT
