The Pope’s beatitudes: Who are the blessed?

The four holy gospels in the Bible which inform us about the life, works and teachings of Jesus Christ, though in a gist, have influenced billions of people down the centuries. While for millions the entire gospels keep providing a “blueprint” to base their life’s objectives and action plan on, there are others who are contented with smaller portions of it too. For many, just one or two Bible verses have brought about a total conversion in their lives. Reading them prayerfully does touch one’s inner being: “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven; Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted; Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth;

Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled; Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy; Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God; Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God; Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven; Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me”.

Some years ago, Pope Francis, while celebrating the feast of All Saints, proposed to the faithful six new beatitudes that he believed could help them lead a holy life in modern times. It would certainly be worth meditating and praying on them. And our prayers can possibly give birth to new beatitudes too.

Father Dominic Emmanuel ,a founder-member of the Parliament of Religions, can be contacted at frdominic@gmail.com