Discovering the Heart of Love: Pope Francis Shares Wisdom on Charity

On Wednesday, May 15, at St. Peter's Square, Pope Francis spoke to the faithful about the deepest form of Christian love: charity. He called it the "culmination" of the virtues we hold dear. "Love is charity," the Pope emphasized, highlighting how it's tied to our connection with God.

Highlights

By Catholic Online
5/15/2024 (6 months ago)

Published in Living Faith

Keywords: Pope Francis, Faith, General Audience

"Love is a tough thing to show without God's help. Our human side likes good and beautiful things naturally," Pope Francis explained. He pointed to Jesus' teaching in the Sermon on the Mount, where He said, "Love your enemy." This, the Pope said, is the highest form of love because it includes forgiving even those who hurt us.

"It seems almost impossible to love this way," Pope Francis admitted, "but it's what truly matters. Love is like a narrow gate that leads to God's kingdom."

He spoke about different types of love, like love for friends, for our community, and for all people. But Pope Francis highlighted that charity is what allows us to love even those who aren't kind to us. "Charity comes from God, from the Holy Spirit working in us," he added.

Pope Francis also talked about St. Paul's teachings in his letter to the Corinthians. He reminded them that Paul was speaking to a group of people who were not always good at loving each other. Paul encouraged them to practice a love that comes down from God, not just one that goes up to Him.

"Today, just like in Corinth, there's often confusion about what love really is," the Pope remarked. He compared true Christian love to the popular ideas of love we hear in songs and from influencers.

Before the audience ended, Pope Francis talked about the upcoming Pentecost celebration, where Christians remember the Holy Spirit coming to help them. He asked everyone to be open to the Holy Spirit's guidance, especially in tough times.

Finally, he took a moment to pray for the people affected by flooding in Afghanistan, especially the children and families who are suffering. He urged the world to come together and support those who need help the most.

In his words and prayers, Pope Francis showed us that charity - God's love in action - is what truly matters in our lives.