Pope Francis' Angelus appeal urges the whole world to stop and reflect

Today we want to talk to you about the exhortation of Papa Francesco to the whole world, in which he underlined the importance of loving God and neighbor as a principle and foundation. He said that we should not focus on human strategies or calculations, but on love.

To put God at the center it means worshiping him and freeing ourselves from the idols that enslave us. The Pontiff hoped that the Church would become one Adoring church in every diocese, parish and community. Only by putting God first will we be purified, transformed and renewed by the fire of his Spirit.

You cannot love God without caring about your neighbor

The Pope also underlined that an authentic religious experience cannot be deaf to the cry of the world. We cannot love God if we do not involve ourselves in care for others. Any form of exploitation or indifference towards the weakest is a serious sin that destroys society. As disciples of Jesus we should put God first and serve the poor and weak.

The Pope also spoke about Synod like a conversation of the Spirit. In light of this experience, he expressed the hope of a more synodal Church missionary who worships God and serves the people of our time, bringing the joy of the Gospel to all.

Next, he cited the example of Saint Teresa of Calcutta, who wished to be just a drop of clean water in which God's love could shine. He encouraged people to reflect love of God in the world without waiting for others to move or for the world to change.

Finally, during the Angelus, the Pope invited everyone to continue pray for world peace, in particular for the situation in Ukraine, Palestine and Israel, and in the various places of conflict. He urged them to stop war and guarantee humanitarian aid to Gaza and release the hostages. He stated that war is always a defeat and asked everyone not to abandon the possibility of stopping the weapons.