Vatican Radio) The importance of credible Christian witness to overcome indifference
and religious illiteracy: that was the theme at the heart of Pope Francis’ message
on Monday to members of the Pontifical Council for New Evangelisation.
Noting
that so many people are indifferent or have grown away from the Church, the Pope said
what we need most is credible witnesses, who show the beauty of God’s love through
their words and their lives. While there are individuals and ideologies within the
history of the Church that may be partly responsible for the current crisis, he said,
we must continue on the path indicated by the Second Vatican Council to strip away
those things which damage the face of the Church. Instead, the Pope said, all Christians
must make God’s mercy and tenderness visible through their joyful witness and charity
to others.
Secondly, he said, new evangelization means going out to meet
others and to dialogue with those who do not share our ideas and beliefs. The Church,
he stressed is a house with its doors always open, not only for others to be welcomed
inside, but also for us to go out and bring God’s love and hope to others.
Finally
Pope Francis focused on the practical, pastoral work of dioceses and parishes, saying
this must always be centred on Jesus Christ as the very essence of our faith. He praised
the work of catechists, saying parents must also be the first to bear witness and
educate their families in the faith.