Bishop Rui Gouveia calls for charity toward the vulnerable in Fatima

Bishop Rui Gouveia, auxiliary bishop of Lisbon, called on Catholics to practice charity toward immigrants, the poor, and lonely people during a Sunday Mass at the Sanctuary of Fatima. He stated that true love for Jesus is demonstrated through service to those one would not naturally choose to help.

The bishop described Christian affection as a commitment to live by giving one's life, rather than a vague feeling or spontaneous sympathy. He referenced the teaching of Pope Benedict XVI to remind pilgrims that God's love involves being fascinated by the happiness of others.

The Eucharist for the 30th Sunday in Ordinary Time concluded the annual pilgrimage of the Legion of Mary to Cova da Iria. The pilgrimage followed the theme "With Mary, loving and serving."