At the end of his public audience this October 5, Pope Francis noted today's feast of St. Faustina, through whom "God indicated to the world to seek salvation in his mercy," he said.
"Let us remember this especially today, thinking especially of the war in Ukraine," he invited, speaking to the Polish pilgrims.
The Pope was referring to a completely out-of-the-ordinary address given before the midday Angelus last Sunday. Usually his Sunday meeting held from the window of his study involves a brief reflection on the Gospel reading of the day. However, this week, he dedicated the entire address to a heartfelt plea for peace, directing himself specifically to the Russian and Ukrainian presidents.
"And what about the fact that humanity is once again faced with the atomic threat? It is absurd," he said.
St. Francis too
Turning to the Italian-language pilgrims and the rest of the faithful, the Pope also made mention of another big feast day this week, the October 4 feast of St. Francis, his namesake as Bishop of Rome.
"Put yourselves in the school of the Poverello of Assisi, imitating him in love and contemplation of the Crucified," the Holy Father invited.
