Scottish Catholic Observer

Pope Francis has challenged Faithful not to be ‘part-time’ Christians and asked us to look within ourselves to see if we have deepened our knowledge of Christ during this Year of Faith.

The Holy Father made the call during his general audience at St Peter’s Square this morning in preparation for the feast of Pentecost Sunday.

Speaking to those gathered at the Vatican, the Pope dedicated his Wednesday audience to the action that the Holy Spirit accomplishes in us, in guiding us to the truth.

“In this Year of Faith, let us ask ourselves if we have actually taken a few steps to get to know Christ and the truths of Faith more, by reading and meditating on the Scriptures, studying the Catechism, steadily approaching the Sacraments,” Pope Francis said. “But at the same time let us ask ourselves what steps we are taking so that the Faith directs our whole existence. Do not be a ‘part-time’ Christian, at certain moments, in certain circumstances, in certain choices, be Christian at all times. The truth of Christ, that the Holy Spirit teaches us and gives us, always and forever involves our daily lives. Let us invoke Him more often, to guide us on the path of Christ’s disciples.”

In a more light-hearted approach, Pope Francis went on to ask pilgrims—estimated to be around the 70,000 mark—if they would pray to the Holy Spirit every day.

“Will you do it?” he asked, to which pilgrims responded: ‘Yes.’

The Holy Father was not content, however, and said: ‘I can’t hear you!’ to which the crowd responded with a resounding ‘YES!’

Ahead of this morning’s general audience, the Pope released two white doves into the sky over St Peter’s, which were presented to him by pilgrims.

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