Welcome to our blog where we delve into the beautiful reflection prepared by the Pontiff for the General Audience on Holy Wednesday. Unfortunately, the audience was canceled due to ongoing convalescence, but the message remains timeless and impactful.
In his reflection, the Holy Father Francis brings to light the parable of the Prodigal Son, reminding us that no matter how far we may have strayed, our loving Father awaits us with open arms. This message of mercy and hope is truly heartwarming and reassuring.
Below is an excerpt from the catechesis prepared by Pope Francis for April 16, 2025, focusing on the parable of the merciful father:
CATECHESIS PREPARED BY THE HOLY FATHER
FOR THE GENERAL AUDIENCE OF 16 APRIL 2025
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Cycle of Catechesis – Jubilee 2025. Jesus Christ our Hope. II. The life of Jesus. The encounters 5. The merciful father. He was lost and has been found (Lk 15:32)
Dear brothers and sisters,
Pope Francis invites us to reflect on the parable of the Prodigal Son, a story that resonates with all of us on a deep level. Through this parable, we are reminded of God’s boundless mercy and love, no matter how lost we may feel.
The parable speaks to the Pharisees and scribes, but its message is universal. It is a story of hope, of redemption, and of the unending love of our Father in Heaven. Whether we have strayed like a lost sheep or a misplaced coin, God is always seeking us out, ready to welcome us back into His loving embrace.
As we journey through life, we may find ourselves in the shoes of the prodigal son, yearning for love and acceptance. We may also see aspects of ourselves in the elder son, who harbors resentment and fails to share in his father’s joy. But through it all, the Father’s door remains open, always inviting us to come home.
Let us take a moment to ponder where we stand in this tale of forgiveness and grace. And may we find solace in knowing that no matter how far we may have strayed, our loving Father is always waiting for us, ready to welcome us back with open arms.
