After having baptized 32 babies in the Sistine Chapel, Pope Francis addressed pilgrims gathered for the Angelus in St. Peter's Square.
On the feast of the Baptism of the Lord, he reflected on the mystery of God's ways, saying Jesus chose to be baptized even when he didn't need to be purified.
POPE FRANCIS
“The Messiah asks to be baptized, in order to fulfill all justice. That is, He fulfills the Father's plan which comes by way of filial obedience and solidarity with a frail and sinful humanity. It is the path of humility and of the closeness of God to His children.”
The pope then reminded Christians they are called to live simply, without boasting about their good deeds.
POPE FRANCIS
“How many, it's sad to say, how many disciples of the Lord boast about being disciples of the Lord. A good disciple does not boast. The good disciple is the humble one, the meek one, the one who does good without making a show of it.”
The pope also took the opportunity to remind Christians of the importance of their own baptism.
POPE FRANCIS
“A homework assignment. When you go home, ask, 'When was I baptized?' Celebrate in your heart the day of your baptism, every year. Do it. It is also a duty of justice to the Lord who has been so good to us.”
After the Angelus, the pope directed a special greeting to the youth members of the Focolare Movement from Colombia, Brazil, Paraguay and Korea.
Claudia Torres
