Pope urges members of secular institutes to act and be
God's Word
Pope Francis on Saturday reminded members of
Secular Institutes about their prophetic presence in the world, especially by
being and acting the Word of God they hear. The Holy Father’s
exhortation came in message he sent to the Italian Conference of
Secular Institutes (CIIS) that is holding a conference in Rome, Oct.
28-29, on the theme, “Beyond and in the Midst: Secular Institutes: Stories of
passion and prophecy for God and the world.” A secular institute is an
organization of consecrated persons who live in the world, unlike members of a
religious institute or congregation who are required to live in a
community.
Acting, not talking
Pope Francis told the confernece participants that their
laicity consists in knowing what God has to say to the world, where “saying”
means acting and not talking. This, he said is very much needed in our
times where difficulties could tempt one to isolate herself
or himself into a comfortable and secure situation and withdraw from
the world. But the Pope said, “your place is to “stay in” with
the transforming presence of the Gospel.” He admitted it is a
difficult path, but assured them the Lord wants to walk with them.
Pope Francis said that their vocation and mission is to be
aware not only of their surroundings, without stopping at appearance but going
deeper, but also discovering where God manifests Himself. In other words
- aware of the world but with hearts immersed in God.
Five spiritual attitudes
In this regard, Pope Francis suggested five spiritual attitudes.
One needs to pray to be united to God and to listen to
Him. One needs discernment to distinguish between
essentials and unimportant things. Like Jesus, one needs to share the
lot of men and women even in tragic and dark times. One should never to
lose confidence and courage, knowing how to find good in
everything. And lastly, one should be animated by Christ's sympathy for
the world and the people, to be free and passionate like salt and yeast in the
world.
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