Benedict, a Gospel Reminder
Rome, 17 November 2024
World Day of the Poor
Dear brothers and sisters,
May the Lord give you peace!
The fifth centenary of the birth of St Benedict the Moor (c. 1524-2024) deserves mention and remembrance. The flames of the devastating wildfires of July 29th, 2023, which severely damaged his incorrupt body, brought this anniversary to light. Benedict's sanctity is a sign of his passion for a life according to the originality of the Gospel, in the spirit of St Francis. Moreover, the Centenary of the Stigmata of St Francis reminds us how the Gospel of the Cross is the core of our vocation.
I will attempt to outline for you the inspiration behind three aspects of the life and witness of St Benedict the Moor — the way of the Gospel; the humble path taken by Christ; living with and among the poor. I do so specifically as we mark the 8th World Day of the Poor, dedicated to the cries and the prayer of the poor.
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