Sainthood isn't the task for a selected few, says Benedict XVI, but rather a universal call for Christian and non-Christian alike.Before praying the Angelus on Thursday with those gathered in St. Peter's Square, the Pope clarified the misconception that sainthood is only for the "chosen few."
In fact, he added, "to become a saint is the task of every Christian, and what's more, we could even say it's the task of everyone!"
The Holy Father said that that the Christian is already holy, "because baptism unites him to Jesus and the Paschal mystery, but at the same time he has to become holy, conforming himself to Jesus ever more intimately."
He said that God invites everyone to form part of his holy people, and that the path to holiness is through "Christ, the son, the Holy One of God: No one reaches the Father if not through him."
Benedict XVI then turned his attention to the commemoration of All the Faithful Departed: "To them we will dedicate our prayers [...] in a special manner, and celebrate the Eucharistic sacrifice."
The Holy Father asked all Christians to pray for those who have died, "so that, completely purified, they may enjoy forever the light and peace of the Lord."
The Pope made a private visit today to the Vatican Grottoes to pray for the repose of the souls of the Pontiffs entombed there, and for all the faithful departed.
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