All original written and photographic material on this site is the property of the author, and is not to be used without permission.

Monday, July 28, 2008

Pope Benedict XVI's Words at 2008 WYD

The Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI, had some important words to speak to young people throughout the world and especially to the current generation of Christian-Catholics who are seeking a new life in Christ.

In the Vatican News Email from Zenit ZE080727, it states:
"The Holy Spirit is also love and self-giving, Benedict XVI continued. 'Let unifying love be your measure; abiding love your challenge; self-giving love your mission!'
Thus, the outpouring of the Holy Spirit is not only a force for enlightenment and consolation, but also is a power for the creation of a new world, the Pope explained.
'Empowered by the Spirit, and drawing upon faith’s rich vision, a new generation of Christians is being called to help build a world in which God’s gift of life is welcomed, respected and cherished -- not rejected, feared as a threat and destroyed,' he said."

This is what we are being called to. Precisely the message of the Gospel- to carry the Word, who is Christ, to the world- for as God speaks through Isaiah in chapter 55, verse 11: "So shall my word be that goes forth from my mouth; It shall not return to me void, but shall do my will, achieving the end for which I sent it."
This is why such a mandate, a call and a challenge to mankind is not oppressive or frightening but joy-filled and hopeful, because it is not US who preach Christ Jesus, but He himself, along with the Father and the Holy Spirit working within us.

Therefore, we must not allow fear to hold us back, for the voice of our Church is calling for us to have FAITH; to believe that with Christ all things are possible, and we can and will begin to bring transformation to our world through our witness to the love of God at work in our lives!

"Come Holy Spirit, and fill the hearts of your faithful, and enkindle in them the fire of your love."

No comments: