Pope remembers drowned migrants, says faith is obtained through prayer

October 07, 2013 - Pope Francis on Sunday once more expressed his heartfelt closeness with the victims of the boat tragedy off the coast of the southern Italian island of Lampedusa, Thursday, in which some 196 migrants have been reported dead so far. Speaking during his weekly midday Marian ‘Angelus’ prayer with a large crowd in St. Peter’s Square in Rome, the Holy Father invited all for a moment of silent prayer for the African migrants who perished in the sea. “Let’s pray in silence for these our brothers and sisters – women, men and children… Let our hearts weep. Let us pray in silence,” the Pope exhorted.
Pope Francis began his ‘Angelus’ address thanking all for the warm reception given him when he visited the native town of his name sake, St. Francis of Assisi, on the saint’s feast day, Friday, Oct. 4. Reflecting on Sunday’s Gospel about Jesus speaking about the efficacy of “faith as tiny as a mustard seed,” the Holy Father said faith is obtained through prayer. He spoke about the simple and humble people, or those in difficulties, who are able to do great things, and maintain a certain serenity, because of their faith. Reminding all about the month of October dedicated in a particular way to missionaries, the Pope said that each and every one of us, “in our own lives, every day, can give witness to Christ, with the strength of God, the strength of faith.” This strength is attained through prayer, he said, adding, “Prayer is the breath of faith.” In a relationship where there is trust and love, he continued, there needs to be dialogue, and “prayer is the dialogue of the soul with God.” October is also the month of the Rosary, and Pope Francis said that the Rosary is “a school of prayer,” and “a school of faith!”
Following the recitation of the ‘Angleus’, Pope Francis spoke of Rolando Rivi, a 14 year old Italian seminarian martyred for the faith in 1945, who was declared Blessed on Saturday in Modena. The Pope spoke of how this young man is a great example for the youth of today. “He knew where he had to go… knew the love of Jesus in his heart, and gave his life for Him.” Pope Francis concluded his post-Angelus address by wishing everyone a good Sunday, and a good lunch. (Source: Vatican)