Pope´s First Mass: "Without the Cross, we are no longer disciples of the Lord"
March 14, 2013. (Romereports.com) Pope Francis concluded his first Mass inside the Sistine Chapel. Gone were the tables where the cardinals had voted to elect him. The Chapel was instead set up to for the ceremony, under the work of Michelangelo. During his first homily, the Pope explained that Christianity is based on three pillars, carrying, building and confessing the faith. He also said that to be Christian, one has to open up to the suffering we find in life. FRANCIS “When we walk without the Cross, when we build without the Cross, and when we confess a Christ without a Cross, we are no longer disciples of the Lord. We are mundane. We are bishops, priests, cardinals, Popes, everyone, but we are no longer disciples of the Lord.” The Pope said the days during the conclave were positive and urged the cardinals to not be afraid of suffering. FRANCIS “I would like it if we all, after these graceful days, get the courage to work with the Lord, carry the Cross of the Lord.” ...