Pope urges people to help others before chasing money

Pope Francis has advised against the pursuit of money, a career or success the basis for one's whole life and urged people to help the poor and others in need of assistance in his Epiphany sermon on Saturday.

Speaking at his Epiphany Mass at St. Peter's Basilica in Rome, he noted that people "often make do" with having "health, a little money and a bit of entertainment."

But he urged them to also help the poor and others in need of assistance, giving freely without expecting anything in return.

To do good without counting the cost, even when unasked, even when you gain nothing thereby, even if it is unpleasant: That is what God wants," he said.

Many Christians observe Epiphany to recall the three wise men who followed a star to find the baby Jesus. Francis suggested asking "what star we have chosen to follow in our lives."

Some stars may be bright, but do not point the way. So it is with success, money, career, honours and pleasures when these become our lives," the pope said. That path, he continued, won't ensure peace and joy.

In some countries, Epiphany and not Christmas, is the holiday occasion to exchange gifts among loved ones.