Pope Francis, at general audience, reflects on virtue of faith
May 01, 2024
At his May 1 general audience, held in Paul VI Audience Hall, Pope Francis reflected on the theological virtue of faith, in the latest talk in a series of Wednesday general audiences devoted to the virtues and vices.
The Pontiff did read aloud his entire talk: the Vatican announced that the text “includes parts that were not read out loud, but should be considered as such.”
“In our continuing catechesis on the theological virtues, which unite us to God and strengthen the moral virtues, we now turn to faith,” the Pontiff stated, in the words of the Vatican’s summary of his remarks. “The Catechism states that by faith we believe in God and all that God has revealed to us, and freely commit our entire self to him (cf. no. 1814).”
The summary continued:
Throughout the Scriptures, we encounter poignant examples of this manifested in the lives of such individuals as Abraham, Moses and the Blessed Virgin Mary, who embarked on uncharted paths fraught with perils entrusting themselves completely to God.
Yet even among believers, there are times when faith can falter and fear takes hold. Let us remember that faith is a gift, a gift that must be asked for with confidence in the power of God’s grace to give stability and strength to our lives. Like the disciples in the boat, buffeted by the storm on the lake, let us turn to Jesus each day and beg him: Lord, increase our faith!” (Lk 17:5)
Previous audiences in series:
- Safeguarding the heart (December 27, 2023)
- The spiritual striving (January 3, 2024)
- Gluttony (January 10, 2024)
- Lust (January 17, 2024)
- Greed (January 24, 2024)
- Wrath (January 31, 2024)
- Sorrow (February 7, 2024)
- Acedia (February 14, 2024)
- No audience on February 21 (Lenten retreat)
- Envy and vainglory (February 28, 2024)
- Pride (March 6, 2024)
- Virtuous action (March 13, 2024)
- Prudence (March 20, 2024)
- Patience (March 27, 2024)
- Justice (April 3, 2024)
- Fortitude (April 10, 2024)
- Temperance (April 17, 2024)
- The life of grace according to the Spirit (April 24, 2024)
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