Pope Francis emphasized the importance of joy that comes from God during his General Audience on Wednesday. He explained that this joy differs from worldly joy, which can wear out over time. The Pope noted that the joy that comes from God is multiplied by sharing it with others and is not subject to the wear and tear of time.
The Holy Father highlighted the fruit of the Holy Spirit, specifically joy, which is born and reborn with Jesus Christ. He stressed that although there may be sad moments, peace is always present. Pope Francis also quoted St. Augustine, saying that our hearts are restless until they rest in God.
The Pope used the example of Saint Philip Neri, known as the “apostle of Rome,” who was filled with joy and love for God. He noted that this saint’s joy was a fruit of the Spirit and that he forgave everything and always forgave. Pope Francis emphasized the importance of forgiveness, saying that God forgives everything and always forgives.
Finally, the Pope stressed that communication cannot be achieved with long faces and gloomy expressions, but with the joy of someone who has found the hidden treasure and the precious pearl. He ended his address by inviting the pilgrims to pray for the children of Ukraine who are suffering because of the war and for peace in the Holy Land.