Pope Francis and the Christian as a Spiritual Man (or Woman)

During this week’s General Audience in St. Peter’s Square, Pope Francis spoke about the approach of Pentecost and the Holy Spirit as the “inexhaustible source of God’s life in us.” He spoke of the Spirit’s impact on our lives, explaining that he is the gift given to us by the Risen Christ, a gift who dwells in us, cleanses us, enlightens us, renews us, and transforms us.

It’s good to keep the Holy Father’s words in mind as we celebrate the Ascension. Christ promised the disciples that, after he rose, the Paraclete would come. In fact, Jesus told them that, if he did not go, the Holy Spirit would not come. (more…)

Pope Francis and Making Space for Prayer

Catholic Church, Holy Father, Pope Francis

Earlier today, Pope Francis held his weekly General Audience in St. Peter’s Square, commemorating the start of the Month of Mary and also the Feast of St. Joseph the Worker. He spoke of the Holy Family, and of how Jesus learned from Joseph and Mary, whose full concentration was on him. He also spoke of the value and dignity of work, and the need to live in solidarity. As usual, the Holy Father’s address is packed with thought and inspiration.

Probably because my life has been so wildly hectic these days, one line caught me in particular: “To listen to the (more…)