Pope Francis Encourages Religious to Help Young People Encounter God
Recently, Pope Francis spoke to the participants of the XVIII General Chapter of the Congregation of the Oblates of St. Joseph at the Vatican, urging them to guide young people towards God.
As the Pope welcomed the religious congregation founded by St. Joseph Marello in 1878, he highlighted their common origins in the land of Piedmont, Italy, where their founder was born.
With the Chapter’s theme being centered around the words of St. Paul to Timothy, urging them to ignite the gift of God within them, Pope Francis emphasized the responsibility that comes with receiving such a gift.
Emulating St. Joseph
St. Joseph, considered the guardian of the Holy Family, serves as a model and inspiration for the Oblates of St. Joseph, according to the Pope. Reflecting on the life of St. Joseph, Pope Francis keeps a statue of the sleeping St. Joseph in his room, symbolizing the Saint’s faith and acceptance of God’s will.
The Pope stressed the importance of grounding their faith and consecration in a daily relationship with Jesus, emphasizing the need for prayer, sacraments, meditation on the Word of God, and Eucharistic Adoration.
Guiding Youth towards God
Highlighting the youth’s need for God more than anything else, Pope Francis emphasized the importance of religious individuals living in God’s presence to help young people encounter Him. He acknowledged the potential for good in the youth and encouraged wise guidance to nurture and support them.
As the Pope thanked the Oblates of St. Joseph for their service and dedication to the Church and society, he reiterated the vital role they play in guiding the younger generation towards a deeper relationship with God.
