In his weekly catechesis, Pope Francis focused on Jesus' way of evangelizing. He said he was an 'unsurpassed model' for how he announced the Kingdom of God 'with gestures and words.' The Pope also warned catechists that their work involved 'suffering and risk.'
SUMMARY OF THE POPE'S CATECHESIS IN ENGLISH
Dear brothers and sisters:
In our continuing catechesis on apostolic zeal, the desire to share with others the joy of the Gospel, we now look to its model and source: the example of Jesus himself. As the eternal Word of God, made flesh for our salvation, Jesus’ entire life was devoted to communicating and dialoguing with others, first with his heavenly Father in profound prayer, and then with others, especially the poor, the outcast and sinners. He proclaimed the coming of God’s Kingdom not only by his preaching, but also by his ministry of healing, reconciliation and forgiveness.
As the Good Shepherd, the model for all pastors in the Church, Jesus was completely committed to the welfare of his flock, protecting the fold yet also setting out in search of the lost sheep. Following his example, may we, in our daily lives, draw joy and strength from our union with the Father in prayer, allow our hearts to be shaped by pastoral zeal for the word of God, and strive, in all our words and actions, to share with others its saving message of joy, hope and new life.
I offer a warm welcome to the English-speaking pilgrims taking part in today’s Audience, especially the groups from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Australia and the United States of America. I offer a special greeting to the many student groups present. I ask all of you to join me in praying for Father Isaac Achi, of the Diocese of Minna in northern Nigeria, who was killed last Sunday in an attack on his rectory. So many Christians continue to be the target of violence: let us remember them in our prayers!
Upon all of you, and upon your families, I invoke the joy and peace of our Lord Jesus Christ. God bless you!
