The Society of St. Paul celebrated its 100th anniversary in the Vatican. As part of the celebration Pope Francis welcomed roughly 7,000 members. They are religious men and women who evangelize through books, magazines and websites.
FR. CELSO GODILANO
Vicar General Society of St. Paul
'The ideal that our founder Don Alberione, left us with, is being the St. Paul of today. Just like Apostle Paul was sent to preach to pagans.â?
The Pope called on them to always promote the unity of the Church and to steer away from division.
POPE FRANCIS
'Don't promote conflict. Don't ever imitate communication outlets that only seek entertainment and conflict.â?
They shouldn't forget, he said, that their objective is to promote the faith and not to make money. He then described faith as God's free gift.
POPE FRANCIS
'In these words, we find the secret of evangelization. So communicating the Gospel through the spirit of the Gospel, meaning it's completely free. Gratuity without business. The joy of receiving this gift of pure love is communicated through love. Gratuity and love.â?
Since the Year of Consecrated life began on Sunday, the Pope encouraged the congregation to leave its mark, by emitting joy. A joy, he said that comes from a close encounter with God.
The group also honored the life of their late superior general, Silvio Sassi, who passed away back on September 14th. The Society of St. Paul will have its next general meeting in January.
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