'Consecrated Religious are 'A Balm for the Soul' in Today's World' : Pope Francis

Vatican, February 2, 2025: Pope Francis presided over First Vespers for the World Day for Consecrated Life in St. Peter's Basilica yesterday and gave a homily.

Addressing thousands of religious, Pope said, “What a balm it is for the soul to encounter religious women and men capable of a mature and joyful relationality."

Key Points of Pope Francis' Homily

1. Bearers of Light: Pope Francis urged consecrated men and women to become "bearers of light" in today's world through their faithful witness of the evangelical counsels.

2. Evangelical Poverty: The pope emphasized that evangelical poverty liberates religious from worldly attachments, enabling them to become "a blessing for others" by embracing simplicity, generosity, sharing, and solidarity.

3. Dangers of Materialism: He warned against the dangers of selfishness, greed, dependence, and violent use of material goods.

4. Consecrated Chastity: Pope Francis noted that consecrated chastity, rooted in the Trinity, offers a powerful witness in a world often marked by superficial relationships and selfish affectivity.

5. Importance of Ongoing Formation: Religious communities must provide ongoing formation to help members fully live this gift without unhealthy expressions of dissatisfaction.

6. Obedience as an Antidote: The pope highlighted obedience as an antidote to isolated individualism, fostering active listening and helping people discover their purpose in God's greater plan.

7. Renewed Eucharistic Adoration: Pope Francis concluded by calling consecrated men and women to return to the origins of their vocation through renewed Eucharistic adoration, emphasizing the importance of adoration in silence.

Fr Suresh Mathew 

Courtesy: Vatican News