In his weekly Angelus, Pope Francis remembered the 50 victims from the massacre at Christchurch in New Zealand.
POPE FRANCIS
“These days, in addition to the pain of the wars and conflicts that continue to afflict all of humanity, another was added for the victims of the horrific attack against two mosques at Christchurch, New Zealand. I pray for the dead and injured and their families.”
He also reflected on the Transfiguration, saying it reflects the Christian approach to suffering, as a necessary and transitory passage.
POPE FRANCIS
“No one reaches Eternal life, if they don't follow Jesus, carrying his own cross in this earthly life. Each of us has our own cross. The Lord shows us the end of this journey, which is the Resurrection, the beauty of carrying one's own cross.”
However, the pope continued to explain that the crosses and trials all reach their fulfillment at Easter time. Yet, in order to reach this day of resurrection, some steps of prayer need to be taken.
POPE FRANCIS
“We climb the mountain with prayer: silent prayer, prayer of the heart, prayer always seeking the Lord. We remain some moments in recollection, every day a little bit. Fix our inner gaze on His face and let His light pervade us.”
He insisted that when one prays, he or she can be transformed from within, illuminating other areas of one's life.