Practise mercy daily, Francis tells Vatican officials

Vatican City, Feb 22 (IANS/AKI) Pope Francis on Monday told Vatican officials to tend to their parishioners with generosity and mercy and has urged them to become a "model" for all.

"Pastors are first of all required to have God himself who takes care of his flock as a model.

"This kind of behaviour is the sign of love that knows no boundaries. It is faithful, constant, unconditional dedication, so that even the weakest may be reached by His mercy," he said during his sermon at mass in St Peter's Basilica as he celebrated the Feast of the Chair of Peter and the Jubilee of Mercy for the Vatican government and its various institutions, the Vatican Radio reported.

Pope Francis also urged strong pastoral attitude within the workplace, "especially towards the people we meet every day".

"May no one - he said - feel neglected or mistreated, may everyone experience the loving care of the Good Shepherd," he said.

The Jubilee Year of Mercy declared by Francis runs until November 30.

--IANS/AKI

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