Catholic priests must deliver good homilies so the “good news” of the Gospel can take root in people’s hearts and help them live holier lives, Pope Francis said. But the faithful in the pews need to do their part, too, the pope said at his weekly general audience Feb. 7.

Listening to the Scripture readings at Mass is hearing God speak directly to his people, offering spiritual sustenance and needed guidance for life’s difficult journey, Pope Francis said. For that reason, the prescribed texts should never be skipped or substituted during the Mass, lectors should read clearly and people should always listen with an open heart so that the words may eventually bear fruit in good deeds, the pope said at his weekly general audience Jan. 31.

Pope Francis said he told the bishops and priests of Chile to be uncompromising when it comes to protecting minors from sexual abuse and to trust that God will purify and renew his church during this time of trial. Problems and conflicts must never be swept under the rug, he also said, because they can be resolved only through openness and dialogue.

Christians must be aware of the injustices and exploitation suffered by migrants and those seeking a better life for themselves and their families, Pope Francis said. On the last leg of his trip in Chile, the pope said the cry of the poor “opens our hearts and teaches us to be attentive.”

The silence that precedes the opening prayer at Mass is an opportunity for Christians to commend to God the fate of the church and the world, Pope Francis said. Departing from his prepared text at his weekly general audience Jan. 10, the pope urged priests “to observe this brief silence and not hurry.”

Fear and the shame of admitting one’s own sins leads to pointing fingers and accusing others rather than recognizing one’s own faults, Pope Francis said.