Title: Pope Francis Expresses Gratitude for Prayers and Love During Hospital Stay
Subtitle: Emphasizes the Importance of Witnessing and Serving Without Expecting Anything in Return
Date: June 18, 2023
In his Angelus prayer on the 11th Sunday of the annual calendar, Pope Francis expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the believers gathered in St. Peter’s Square for their prayers and love during his recent hospital stay. The Pope, who underwent abdominal surgery, acknowledged the tremendous support he received, describing it as a source of comfort and strength during a challenging time. He thanked everyone from the bottom of his heart, emphasizing the profound impact of their human and spiritual concern.
Reflecting on the Gospel of the day, Pope Francis highlighted the core message of preaching, which is to “witness and serve without asking for anything in return.” He emphasized the importance of getting close to God, overcoming fear, and bravely practicing the truth of one’s faith. The Pope encouraged believers to trust in God’s nearness and to look forward with confidence, likening the relationship between God and His children to that of a father and child. He urged them to sit at the Father’s lap through prayer, hearing the Word, and receiving the Sacraments.
The Pope underscored the significance of declaring God’s nearness through acts of love and hope. Quoting from the Gospel, he reminded the faithful that Jesus advises not to rely solely on words but to perform many acts of love and hope in the name of the Lord. Pope Francis expressed his bewilderment towards those who speak eloquently but fail to put their words into action. He urged believers to be like children, looking at the world with trust and love, and proving that God is the Father who can transform hearts and bring immeasurable joy and peace.
Furthermore, Pope Francis challenged those present to inspire others, including those who suffer, are alone, or even hostile. He emphasized that practicing the faith and reaching out to others is of utmost importance. The Pope’s message resonated with the crowd, reminding them of their responsibility as apostles to spread God’s love and compassion to all.
The Pope’s Angelus prayer on June 18, 2023, served as a powerful reminder of the importance of witnessing and serving without expecting anything in return. His gratitude for the prayers and love shown during his hospital stay exemplified the deep connection between the spiritual and human aspects of our lives. Pope Francis’ words encouraged believers to draw closer to God, overcome fear, and boldly live out their faith through acts of love and hope.
Source: Vatican News Network – http://www.vaticannews.cn/
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Without expecting anything in return.” He emphasized the need for Christians to live out their faith by actively showing love and compassion to others, without seeking personal gain or recognition. The Pope encouraged believers to follow the example of Jesus, who selflessly gave himself for the salvation of humanity.
During his hospital stay, Pope Francis also expressed his gratitude for the medical staff at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, praising their professionalism and dedication. He commended their tireless efforts in providing him with the best possible care, demonstrating once again the importance of healthcare workers in society.
The Pope’s message resonates with his consistent teachings on humility, selflessness, and service to others. Throughout his papacy, he has urged Catholics and people of all faiths to prioritize the needs of the marginalized and vulnerable, advocating for a society that values the dignity and worth of every individual.
Overall, Pope Francis’s gratitude for the prayers and love he received during his hospital stay serves as a reminder of the power of community and the importance of offering support and solidarity to those in need. His words also call upon believers to live out their faith through acts of kindness and service, exemplifying the teachings of Jesus Christ.
Pope Francis’s emphasis on witnessing and serving in his Angelus Prayer reminds us of the true essence of faith. Gratitude coupled with actions can bring profound impact, and his words serve as a powerful reminder for us all.
Pope Francis’ message in the Angelus Prayer serves as a powerful reminder of the significance of witnessing and serving in our lives. His gratitude and emphasis on selfless acts of kindness inspire us to become better human beings and make a positive difference in the world.