Pope Francis has begun his summer vacation. But he will continue to pray the Angelus every Sunday. St. Peter's Square was full of pilgrims braving the high temperatures of the Roman summer to listen to him.
Dear brothers and sisters, good morning!
The Pope reflected on the Gospel of the day. It focused on the figure of prophets and raised the following question.
POPE FRANCIS
But who is the prophet? There are those who imagine him as a kind of magician who predicts the future. But this is a superstitious idea, and Christians do not believe in superstitions, like magic, tarot cards, horoscopes or the like. By the way, many, many Christians go to have their palms read. Please!
In this context, Pope Francis explained that a prophet is anyone who has received baptism and, therefore, also the prophetic mission. Not only that, he spoke of the importance of Christians welcoming one another in all areas of the Church and, above all, listening to one another.
POPE FRANCIS
Let us think how many conflicts could be avoided and resolved in this way: by listening to others with a sincere desire to understand them! Let us finally ask ourselves: do I know how to welcome my brothers and sisters as prophetic gifts? Do I believe that I need them? Do I listen to them with respect, with a desire to learn? Each of us needs to learn from others; each of us needs to learn from others.
Following the Angelus, the Pope encouraged everyone present not to tire of praying for peace, not only in Ukraine, but in all places where wars or conflicts are often forgotten.
CA
TR: KG