In the August 17 general audience, Pope Francis speaks about the importance of age in our understanding of God.

In the last of a series of audiences centered around the "catechesis of old age," Pope Francis emphasized the importance of finding God's promise for new life in the elderly.

“It was therefore a penitential pilgrimage,” Pope Francis said at today’s general audience. “There were many joyful moments, but the overall meaning and tone was reflection, repentance and reconciliation.”

Read the full text of Pope Francis’ homily at Lac Ste. Anne, a pilgrimage site in Alberta, Canada, long known as a place of healing among Indigenous Peoples.

“To remember the devastating experiences that took place in the residential schools hurts, angers, causes pain, and yet it is necessary.”

In his general audience, Pope Francis emphasized how following Jesus often means accepting that we don’t have total control over our lives, especially as we age.