Vatican City, May 2 : Petty gossip and criticism are forms of persecution, Pope Francis said on Monday as he celebrated mass at the Vatican hotel where he lives.
The Christian who bears witness to the Holy Spirit in his daily life and behaviour can draw persecution, Francis said in his homily.
"This can take the form of little acts of persecution in the form of idle gossip to the big ones that fill the history of the Church.
"The latter can lead Christians into jail or even to sacrifice their lives," he said.
Jesus invites his disciples not to be surprised if they draw persecution, the pope said.
