Pope Francis entered St. Peter's Square for his last General Audience until August 9, when he returns from World Youth Day in Lisbon.
The Pope passed among the faithful in the popemobile and, as usual, stopped to bless children. The audience featured a speical performance from a Spanish choir.
Continuing his weekly catechesis on evangelization, Pope Francis reflected on St. Mary MacKillop, a religious sister who dedicated her life to educating the poor in Australia.
POPE FRANCIS
Wisely reading the signs of the times, she understood that for her, the best way to do this was through the education of young people, with the understanding that Catholic education is a form of evangelization.
He went on to explain that this saint also faced many difficulties, including health problems and the financial management of schools. According to the Pope, the way she faced life's challenges is the secret to her apostolic zeal.
POPE FRANCIS
Yet through it all, she remained quiet, patiently carrying the cross that is an integral part of the mission. On one occasion, on the Feast of the Exaltation of the Cross, Mary said to one of her sisters, 'My daughter, for many years I have learned to love the Cross.” She did not give up in times of trial and darkness, when her joy was challenged by opposition and rejection.
As usual, at the end of the audience, the Pope offered his prayers to Ukraine.
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