Pope Francis reflected on the last words of advice the Apostle Paul gave to the elders in Ephesus, before departing to Jerusalem. He warned against “teachers of false doctrine” and “the practice of magic”.
Pope Francis asked Christians to pray for Church leaders and for the growth of the Christian community in “joyful fidelity to the Gospel.”
SUMMARY OF CATECHESIS IN ENGLISH
Dear Brothers and Sisters:
In our catechesis on the Acts of the Apostles, we now see the Good News proclaimed in Ephesus, where Paul performs many wonders: healing the sick and freeing those possessed by evil spirits.
Here, in a city where the practice of magic was widespread, Paul preaches the salvation brought by faith in the Lord Jesus. On his return voyage to Jerusalem, Paul stops at Miletus and sends for the elders of the church of Ephesus.
He encourages them, who will guide the community after his departure, to be on their guard against teachers of false doctrine, to guide the flock entrusted to their care in the way of holiness, and to show generosity and concern for the poor.
Dear friends, let us pray that in every age God will sustain the Church’s pastors in deep faith and in zeal for the growth of the Christian community in joyful fidelity to the Gospel.
I greet the English-speaking pilgrims and visitors taking part in today’s Audience, especially the groups from Malta, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Canada and the United States of America.
I pray that each of you, and your families, may experience a blessed Advent, in preparation for the coming of the newborn Savior at Christmas. May God bless you!
Javier Romero
Claudia Torres
