During his General Audience on Wednesday, Pope Francis continued his catechesis on the book of the Acts of the Apostles.
He took this opportunity to reflect on problems that early Christian communities faced.
POPE FRANCIS
“Problems have existed from the beginning: how to solve problems when living in a community, without creating differences or problems.”
“In the face of trouble, tares appear. What is the worst weed for a community? Gossip.”
The pope explained that not only were there whispers from within the Church, but reproaches against Christian communities outside the Church as well.
He gave an example of St. Stephen: his enemies could not attack him, so they spread rumors about him instead.
POPE FRANCIS
“Slander or false testimony. We know that slander always kills. This 'diabolical cancer,' arises from the will to attack someone's reputation also destroys the rest of the ecclesial body.”
Pope Francis also said that today, the Church is full of martyrs; men and women who give their lives for their faith.
Daniel Díaz Vizzi
Translated: Rachel Dobrzynski
