Currents News Staff
Pope Francis greeted many of the pilgrims gathered in Paul VI Audience Hall. He showed particular affection to a baby in pink.
The pope once again asked for a moment of silent prayer for people suffering in Syria, especially the women and children. He also offered a prayer for those affected by the coronavirus outbreak.
“Let us also pray for our Chinese brothers and sisters who suffer from this illness, so cruel. May they find the path to healing as quickly as possible,” said Francis.
During his catechesis, he explained the second Beatitude: Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.
The pope compared Peter and Judas to show the difference between weeping out of pride and weeping out of contrition. He also emphasized God’s readiness to forgive, as long as one asks for His mercy.
“Don’t forget this. God always forgives, even the ugliest sins. He always forgives. The problem is in us, that we get tired of asking forgiveness,” said Francis.
He then spoke of the importance of being able to distinguish right from wrong. He said this ability is something only God can give.
“Understanding sin is a gift from God. It’s a work of the Holy Spirit. We, by ourselves, cannot understand sin. It is a grace we must ask for. ‘Lord, may I understand the wrong I have done and the wrong I can do,’” said Francis.
Following the Audience, the pope greeted the Archbishop of Westminster, Cardinal Vincent Nichols. The pope will bless this image of the Blessed Mother, which will make its way through all the parishes in the United Kingdom.