In his Sunday Angelus, Pope Francis reflected on the three conditions needed to be a disciple of Christ.
He noted those would-be disciples in the Gospel who delay their response to Christ's calling for them.
POPE FRANCIS
In order to follow Jesus, the Church is itinerant. It acts immediately, quickly and decisively. The value of these conditions given by Jesus - itinerancy, readiness and decision – is not founded in a series of saying 'no' to good and important things in life. Rather, the emphasis should be on the main objective, that is to become a disciple of Christ!
The pope lamented over those who try to use Jesus to make a career or to acquire a place of prestige, rather than to be passionate about Christ and the Gospel.
After the Angelus prayer, Pope Francis recalled the historical meeting earlier on the same day between U.S. President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. Both leaders met in a demilitiarilized zone in North Korea, making Donald Trump the first sitting U.S. President to enter the country.
POPE FRANCIS
In these last few hours, we have seen in Korea a good example of the ‘culture of encounter.’ I greet the protagonists and pray that such a significant gesture might constitute another step along the path of peace, not only on the peninsula, but for the whole world.
Pope Francis sent his regards also to all workers and prayers for those suffering from the intense heat this summer.
POPE FRANCIS
I pray for those who have suffered most from the consequences of the heat these days. These are the sick, the elderly, people who have to work outdoors, on construction sites. I hope no one is abandoned or exploited.
During the month of July, Pope Francis will be on vacation, only presiding at the Angelus on Sunday and not the General Audience.
