Pope Francis reflected on a new stage in the spread of the Gospel. He discussed dialogue between the deacon, Philip, and a foreigner.
He also said that to find God, it is not enough to know Scripture. The Scripture must be understood. To understand it, he reveals “the key to reading the Scriptures: namely, is Christ.”
SUMMARY OF THE POPE'S CATECHESIS IN ENGLISH
Dear Brothers and Sisters:
Continuing the catechesis on the Acts of the Apostles, we now understand a new stage in the spread of the Gospel.
The deacon, Philip, compelled by the Holy Spirit, meets a foreigner with an open heart. The foreigner, a high official of the Queen of Ethiopia, is reading a passage from the prophet Isaiah. The official does not understand the full meaning of the text, because he lacks a guide.
Philip explains that Old Testament prophecies reach fulfillment in Christ. The official then professes his faith and is baptized. He leaves the baptismal waters a member of the Body of Christ.
This dialogue reveals the key to reading Scriptures is Christ. May the Holy Spirit strengthen the baptized to follow the example of Philip in bearing witness to the saving power of the Gospel and Jesus.
I greet the English-speakers here today, especially those from England, Scotland, Ireland, Denmark, the Netherlands, Norway, Norway, Sweden, Botswana, Australia, China, Indonesia, the Philippines, Canada and the United States. My greetings go to the seminarians of the Pontifical North American College and their families. May God bless you all!
