TIMOTHY AND TITUS: WILLINGNESS TO SERVE THE GOSPEL

VATICAN CITY, DEC 13, 2006 (VIS) - In the Vatican Basilica this morning, the Holy Father met with faithful from dioceses in the Italian region of Calabria, accompanied by their bishops who are in the process of completing their "ad limina" visit. Also present was a group of Italian students. Afterwards, the Holy Father went to the Paul VI Hall for his weekly general audience.

  In a brief greeting to the faithful gathered in the basilica, the Holy Father said that the Church in Calabria must continue "her evangelizing mission, more urgent than ever even in our own times, in order to face the current cultural, social and religious challenges. From the Gospel, courageously draw the light and strength to promote the authentic moral, social and economic renewal of your region. Be joyful witnesses of Christ and tireless builders of His Kingdom of justice and peace.

  In conclusion, the Pope thanked the region of Calabria which this year has donated the Christmas tree to adorn St. Peter's Square. The tree is due to be erected today.

  In the Paul VI Hall, the Holy Father's catechesis focused on Sts. Timothy and Titus, two of St. Paul's closest associates. Benedict XVI recalled how Timothy, a "pastor of great importance," was the first bishop of Ephesus, while Titus, whom Paul defined as "my true child in a common faith," was bishop of Crete.

  These two men, said the Holy Father, tell us that Paul, the archetypal Apostle, "did not do everything alone, but relied upon trusted individuals to share his labors and responsibilities."

  The Pope highlighted the "willingness" of Timothy and Titus "to take on various tasks, which often involved representing Paul in difficult circumstances. Thus they teach us," he added, "to serve the Gospel generously, knowing that this involves a service to the Church herself."

  Pope Benedict XVI quoted St. Paul's words in his Letter to Titus, where the Apostle exhorts his helper to remain faithful to the true doctrine: "'I desire you to insist on these things so that those who have believed in God may be careful to apply themselves to good deeds; these are excellent and profitable to men.'

  "Through a solid commitment on our part," the Pope concluded, "we can and must discover the truth of these words and, precisely in this period of Advent, be rich in good works, thus opening the door of the world to Christ, our Savior."
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