Pope Francis

Being contemplative in prayer is an act of faith and love, it is "the 'breath' of our relationship with God," he said during his weekly general audience May 5.

While millions of laypeople around the world are recognized as catechists in their parish or diocese, Pope Francis is preparing to formally institute the "ministry of catechist."

As countries become more culturally and ethnically diverse, their Catholic communities become more "catholic" and their societies can increasingly reflect the fact that all people are brothers and sisters, Pope Francis said.

Meeting new recruits to the Swiss Guard, Pope Francis thanked the young men for having chosen to serve the successor of St. Peter and he thanked all the guards for their diligence and service.

People can't be good Christians if they do not choose to remain in Jesus, Pope Francis said.