General audience: Pope explains how prayer can help people overcome their weaknesses



May 16, 2012. (Romereports.com)
 During Wednesday's general audience, the Pope began a new chapter on catechesis. With roughly 11,000 people in St. Peter's Square, the Pope talked about St. Paul and his strong connection with prayer and the Holy Spirit. “For Paul, prayer is above all the work of the Holy Spirit within our hearts, the fruit of God's presence within us,” said Benedict XVI.

The Pope went on to say that with prayer, the Holy Spirit helps people overcome their weaknesses. Benedict XVI added that prayer is a way to give thanks, and also a means to request.

Benedict XVI
“In our prayer, the Holy Spirit grants us the glorious freedom of the children of God, the hope and strength to remain faithful to the Lord amid our daily trials and tribulations.”

He also called for a personal reflection, by saying that people often want what's best for them, but they don't necessarily act in a way that promotes what's best.  

Benedict XVI
“With St. Paul let us open our hearts to the presence of the Holy Spirit, who prays with us and leads us to an even deeper union in love with the Triune God.”

Members of a Catholic missionary movement called 'Shalom' were also present in the general audience. This year, is the group's 30th anniversary and most recently the Pope approved the community's statutes. This Brazilian movement now has a presence in 16 countries. There was also time to enjoy a bit of music. During the general audience, a band seated front and center, played for the Pope and the thousands of people in attendance.

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