During his catechesis, the pope recalled the importance of the prayer of intercession. He explained that just like Jesus did, Catholics should not hide from others' needs and should instead open their hearts to other people's sorrows and fears.
The pope added that it is necessary to pray, especially for those who suffer, don't know how to pray, or have lost their way in life.
Pope Francis also highlighted that prayers of intercession are, in fact, an essential duty of every catholic. He said that 'while the whole Church has the mission of interceding for all,' this duty falls particularly to those in positions of responsibility, such as parents, teachers, or priests.
SUMMARY OF POPE'S CATECHESIS
Dear Brothers and Sisters:
In our continuing catechesis on Christian prayer, we now turn to the prayer of intercession. Following the example and teaching of Jesus, whenever we pray in silence and solitude, so as better to listen to the Lord, we do not hide from the needs of others, but open our hearts to their sorrows and fears.
The Catechism teaches that our intercessory prayer, in communion with all the saints, participates in Christ’s own prayer (cf. No. 2635). While the whole Church has the mission of interceding for all – especially for those who suffer, those who do not know how to pray or have lost their way in life – this duty falls particularly to those in positions of responsibility, such as parents, teachers or priests.
Although often hidden from the world, our intercessions are never hidden from God, who always hears those who cry to him. Like Christ the Good Shepherd interceding with his heavenly Father for all his children, may our own prayer always be attentive to those most in need, and so contribute to the great network of intercession that sustains the life of the world.
I cordially greet the English-speaking faithful. On our Advent journey, may the light of Christ illumine our paths and dispel all darkness and fear from our hearts. Upon you and your families I invoke the joy and peace of our Lord Jesus Christ. God bless you!
Javier Romero
Translation: Christian Campos
