Faith is a way of life, not a theory, Pope tells Sunday audience

September 14, 2009

Christianity is not an abstract belief but a concrete way of life, Pope Benedict XVI reminded his Sunday audience on September 13. Speaking to the crowd gathered in the courtyard of his summer residence at Castel Gandolfo, the Pope said: "Jesus did not come to teach us a philosophy but to show us a path, the path that leads to life."

A living faith is made manifest in an upright life, the Pope said-- and particularly in works of charity. "If you love your neighbor with a pure and generous heart, it means that you really know God. If you say you have faith but do not love your brothers, then you are not a true believer."

 

---

For all current news, visit our News home page.

---

 
Further information:

• Christ Did not Teach a Philosophy but Showed Us a Path (VIS)
• Pope says Faith is also Reflected in Deeds (Vatican Radio)