Recalling the definition of prayer as “a necessary means” given by St. Alphonsus, the Pope encouraged the faithful to focus on “the main question: what is truly necessary in our lives?”. “Good health and all the grace we need to obtain it”, is St. Alphonsus’ answer, meaning “non only the health of the body, but above all that of the soul”. “What we need the most – the Holy Father explained – is His liberating presence that makes our lives truly human, and therefore filled with joy. Only through prayer can we welcome Him, His Grace, which, by illuminating us in every situation, helps us discern the true good, and by strengthening us, makes our will effective, that is, capable of doing what we know is good”. “The Lord’s disciples know that they are always exposed to temptation and never cease to ask for God’s help in prayer to overcome it”, the Pope highlighted. “We too, – the Pope said -, aware of our weaknesses, should seek God’s help with humility, trusting only in His great mercy”. St. Alphonsus, like St. Augustin, “invites all Christians not to be afraid to turn to God in prayer to obtain the strength they need to do good, in the certainty that the Lord does not refuse His help to those who pray to Him humbly.

01/08/2012 -