BENEDICT XVI: AUDIENCE, "IN THE DIVERSITY OF CULTURES OUR COMMON IDENTITY IS CHRIST"

” “"When he encounters the risen Christ," continued Benedict XVI "Paul understands that with Christ the God of Israel, the only true God, becomes the God of all people and that the wall between Israel and the pagans is no longer necessary. It is Christ who is protecting us against polytheism and all its drifts" and that ensures "our true identity in the diversity of cultures." "Our common identity in the diversity of cultures is Christ. It is Him who makes us righteous" because "being righteous simply means being in Christ," continued the Pope. "To have faith is to look at Christ, to trust in Him" thus "conforming to Christ" and to His life "which is love." Therefore, explained Benedict XVI, "Paul speaks of a faith that operates through charity: in the twofold love of God and neighbour the Law is fulfilled." In this perspective, "justice is determined by charity" which is "the fulfilment of the communion with Christ." "We can only pray the Lord that He may help us believe," concluded the Pontiff. So that faith "can transform our life."” ” ” ” ” ” ” “