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any of us have been touched by the joyful simplicity of Pope Francis, and it is telling that so many people refer to his simple lifestyle choices as an example for all of us. His preferences in living quarters, dress, modes of transportation and so on have been commented on by the media, his fellow priests, and Catholics and non-Catholics alike. His smile and obvious love for people radiate a God-centeredness that is refreshing and inspiring. He is truly a man of faith, a man of hope and a man of deep compassion.
In Pope Francis’ first encyclical (letter), he called us as disciples of Jesus to carry the light of faith to all that we meet. The encyclical was first drafted by Pope Benedict (intended to complete his three-part series on hope, love, and faith) but completed by Francis.
We are called to be people of faith: “Those who believe are transformed by the love to which they have opened their hearts in faith.”
We are called to be evangelists, sharing our faith: “Faith is not a private matter, a completely individualistic notion, or a personal opinion.”
Pope Francis challenges each of us: “Could it be the case …that we are the ones who are ashamed to call God our God? That we are the ones who fail to confess him as such in our public life, who fail to propose the grandeur of the life in common which he makes possible?”
We are called to reflect on the gift of our faith and Pope Frances encourages us to ask Mary for help. He concluded the encyclical with a beautiful prayer to her, quoted here only in part.
“Mary, help our faith! Open our ears to hear God’s word and to recognize his voice and call…Teach us to see all things with the eyes of Jesus that he may be light for our path. And may this light of faith always increase in us…”
-Sr. Marie Paul Grech, SND
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