Pope Francis Encourages Pilgrims to Embrace Their Faith and Become Saints

The Pope Francis recently greeted a group of pilgrims from the birthplaces of Sts. John XXIII and Paul VI in northern Italy, urging them to appreciate the roots of their faith and strive to become saints themselves.

The pilgrims, who came from the towns of Sotto il Monte and Concesio, gathered to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the encyclical Pacem in terries, the death of Pope John XXIII, and the election of Pope Paul VI. Pope Francis highlighted the importance of family in the lives of these two saintly Popes, noting that their upbringing instilled in them a love for solid Christian piety through hard work.

The Pope emphasized the role of companionship and community in the journey towards sainthood, stating that saints are not created in isolation but through the collective effort of all believers under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. He urged the pilgrims to draw inspiration from the example of John XXIII and Paul VI, as well as from their own parents and grandparents who worked tirelessly to build a better future for their families.

Pope Francis also warned against selfishness and division within Christian communities, calling on the pilgrims to appreciate their roots not as a means of isolation but as a source of richness to be shared with others. He encouraged them to work together for peace and unity, following the example of the two saintly Popes.

In conclusion, the Pope highlighted the cultural heritage of the region, with the cities of Bergamo and Brescia being chosen as the “Italian Capital of Culture” for 2023. He urged the local residents to embrace their rich heritage in the faith and use it to strengthen their parishes and families, following in the footsteps of John XXIII and Paul VI.