Pope reflects on patience and spiritual works of mercy
November 16, 2016
Continuing his series of Wednesday general audiences on the works of mercy, Pope Francis devoted his November 16 catechesis to patience and three of the spiritual works of mercy.
“In showing patience to those who wrong us and, by extension, to those we find irritating, we imitate God’s own patience with us sinners,” the Pope told the crowds gathered in St. Peter’s Square, according to the official English-language synthesis of his remarks. “Exercising patience with others also challenges us to reflect on our own conduct and failings.”
“Patience is also required in two related spiritual works of mercy: admonishing sinners and instructing the ignorant,” he continued. “We think of the patience shown by the many parents, catechists and teachers who quietly help young people to grow in faith and knowledge of the important things in life.”
The Pope added:
Helping others to look past the ephemeral, to discover the Lord’s will in their lives and thus to find lasting joy, is a great act of charity. By serving our brothers and sisters in this way, our own minds and hearts are purified and renewed. May the Holy Spirit grant us the generosity and patience needed to support and encourage those around us, so that together we may cherish the things that truly matter.
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