Pope says “true Christians” must reject horoscopes, occult

Pope Francis

VATICAN CITY –Pope Francis has spoken out against horoscopes, witchcraft, tarot readings and sorcerers stating that a true Christians should reject these things and to look to Jesus for guidance.

 The Pope gave this message in the last Mass before summer break at Santa Marta, Tuesday. It is not the first time Francis has spoken out against such practices, partaken in by millions of Italians each year.

 Pope Francis placed special concern on astrology and witchcraft experts such as diviners, mediums or sorcerers.

 “Horoscopes and necromancer” are not necessary to know the future, “reading palms and the crystal ball” are useless: the “true Christian” trusts god and lets himself be guided on a path open to the surprises of God. Otherwise, you cannot be a “true Christian” explained Pope Francis.

 A few months ago, the Pontiff turned to a group of faithful and said: “I would like to ask you, but everyone answers internally, how many of you read the horoscope each day? When you want to read it, look to Jesus who loves you.”

 He explained there is no need to try to presage your fate by placing confidence in a palm reader, given that for a believer to prevail he must rely on God without any fear, especially without resorting to any occult practices.

 “Encouraging people to follow Jesus in everyday life”, confidence and the ability to be aware of divine action are key-elements of the Pope’s message.

 Each year, in Italy, approximately 12 million people are concerned by the phenomenon of fortune telling.

 Reports from anti-indoctrination associations also say that people involved have pledged several billions of euros to fatten the pockets of more than 120,000 operational sorcerers. These activities are concentrated in major cities like Milan, Rome and Naples.

 People resort to these practices in order to seek assurance in romantic affairs in 52 percent of the cases, economic issues in 24 percent and health issues for 13 percent of them. 

 These anti-indoctrination authorities are receiving a number of reports from individuals who confess cases of such counselling dependencies, with the victims saying that their addiction to the sessions is similar to that of a drug.

 

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