Pope
Francis returned to the theme of the "Church as our Mother"during his
audience catechesis on Wednesday.
The Pope’s English language remarks
were read out at the Audience.
Dear Brothers and Sisters: today I wish to
return to the image of the Church as our Mother, by reflecting on all
that our earthly mothers do, live and suffer for their children.
First,
our mothers show us, through their tenderness and love, the correct
path to follow in life, so that we may grow into adulthood. So too the
Church orients us on the path of life, indicating the way that leads to
maturity.
Second, our mothers know how and when to accompany us with
understanding through life and to help lead us back when we wonder off
the right path. The Church also accompanies us in mercy, in
understanding, never judging us or closing the door, but offering
forgiveness to help us return to the right course.
Third, as our
mothers never grow tired of interceding for us, no matter our failings,
so too the Church stays with us always and, through prayer, puts into
the hands of the Lord all our situations, difficulties and needs. And
so we see in the Church a good Mother who indicates the path to walk in
life, who always accompanies us in patience, mercy and understanding,
and who places us in God’s hands.
I offer an affectionate greeting to
all the English-speaking pilgrims and visitors present at today’s
Audience.
In a particular way, I welcome the Inter-Ministerial
Delegation of the Vietnamese Government for Religious Affairs.
I
welcome also all those from England, Scotland, Ireland, Norway, India,
Canada and the United States.
May Jesus Christ confirm you in faith and
make you witnesses of his love and mercy to all people.
May God bless
you!