The day after returning to Rome from his trip to Canada, Pope Francis reflected on covetousness after praying the Angelus in St. Peter's Square.
POPE FRANCIS
What is covetousness? It is the unbridled greed for possessions, always desiring to be rich. This is an illness that destroys people, because the hunger for possessions creates an addiction. Above all, those who have a lot are never content, they always want more, and only for themselves. But this way, the person is no longer free
The Pope said that while some forms of government lead to covetousness, it is up to each individual to fight this temptation internally.
POPE FRANCIS
Today, Jesus teaches us that at the heart of all this are not only some who are powerful, or certain economic systems. The covetousness that is in everyone’s heart is at the center. And so, let us try to ask ourselves: Where am I at with my detachment from possessions, from wealth? Do I complain about what I lack, or do I know how to be content with what I have?
He ended by saying he will further discuss his trip to Canada in his next Audience, and thanked all those who made the journey possible.
POPE FRANCIS
I intend to speak about it during the General Audience this coming Wednesday. But now I would like to thank all those who made this penitential pilgrimage possible, beginning with the civil authorities, the chiefs of the Indigenous peoples, and the Canadian bishops. I sincerely thank all those who accompanied me with their prayer. Thank you to you all!
Pope Francis also expressed his closeness to the people of Ukraine before saying goodbye to the approximately 12,000 gathered in St. Peter's Square.
RM
TR: JM
