Pope Benedict XVI in Velletri

Today, the Holy Father made a pastoral visit to Velletri, Italy, which is south of Rome.  The Pope was the Titular Cardinal of the Diocese of Velletri for many years.

English translations of the Pope's homily in Velletri are available from the Vatican and Zenit.  In speaking of the readings for Mass from Amos and St. Luke's Gospel, he spoke of a choice between the selfish search for profit, on the one hand, and authentic generosity "expressed in a sincere love for all and is manifested in the first place in prayer" on the other.  Here is what he said about prayer:

"Actually, praying for others is a great act of charity. The Apostle invites us in the first place to pray for those who have tasks of responsibility in the civil community because, he explains, if they aspire to do good, positive consequences derive from their decisions, assuring peace and "a quiet and peaceable life, godly and respectful in every way" (I Tm 2: 2). Thus, may our prayer never be lacking, a spiritual contribution to building an Ecclesial Community that is faithful to Christ and to the construction of a society in which there is greater justice and solidarity."

After returning to Castel Gandolfo, the Holy Father offered a reflection as usual before praying the midday Angelus.  Articles about his words before the Angelus are available from Asia News and Catholic News Agency.  Translations are available from the Vatican and from Teresa Benedetta at Papa Ratzinger Forum.  In that reflection, the Holy Father spoke about today's Gospel reading for Mass, which is Luke 16:1-13, about the use of money to serve God.  In so doing, he spoke both about the positive aspects of capitalism in the freedom of the individual, adding that "capitalism should not be considered as the only valid model for economic organization," and mentioning the goal of "equitable and sustainable development."

Here are the Pope's words in English offered after the Angelus:

"I greet all the English-speaking pilgrims and visitors present at this Angelus.

"Today’s Gospel reading calls us to be good stewards; people of integrity seeking God’s justice which is fulfilled in love.

"May your time here at Castel Gandolfo and in Rome deepen your understanding of our faith, and renew in you the desire to lead lives marked by honesty, trust and compassion. Upon you and your families, I invoke God’s abundant blessings of peace and joy!"