(-ONLY VIDEO-) In his weekly general audience, Pope Francis talked about Eternal Life. He explained that the distinction will not be based on the living or the dead, bur rather on who is in Christ and who is not. He then added that the Church is constantly growing and journeying towards the Kingdom of Heaven.
SUMMARY OF THE POPE'S CATECHESIS
Dear Brothers and Sisters:
The Second Vatican Council reminded us that the Church is not an end in herself, but that she is continually journeying through history to the kingdom of heaven, of which the Church on earth is the seed and beginning.
This journey will reach its fulfillment in the end times, when the universe will be transformed and we will be fully enveloped by joy, peace and the love of God in the new heavenly Jerusalem.
Even now we experience a communion between the Church on earth and the Church in heaven through our union with those who have died. The souls in heaven assist us with their prayers, while we assist the souls in purgatory through our good works, prayer and participation in the Eucharist.
As members of the Church then, the distinction is not between who has died and who is living, but rather who is in Christ and who is not. Saint Paul tells us further that it is not only humanity which will be liberated from corruption, but the whole of creation. All things will be brought into the fullness of being, truth and beauty.
This is Godâ??s design for us and the Churchâ??s vocation. Let us ask Mary, Mother of the Church, to watch over us on our way and to help us be a joyful sign of faith and hope among our brothers and sisters.
I offer an affectionate greeting to all the English-speaking pilgrims and visitors present at todayâ??s Audience, including those from England, Kenya, Nigeria, Canada and the United States. May your stay in the Eternal City confirm you in love for our Lord and his Church. May God bless you all!
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