Vatican
City, 5 May 2013 (VIS) – “Today, the National Day of Children
Victims of Violence, I give a special greeting to the 'Meter'
Association. This gives me the opportunity to turn my thoughts to all
those who have suffered and who are suffering because of abuse. I
want to assure them that they are present in my prayers but I also
want to forcefully state that we must all commit ourselves with
clarity and courage so that every human person, especially children
who are among the most vulnerable, be always defended and protected.”
These were the Pope's words before praying the Regina Coeli with the
numerous faithful gathered in St. Peter's Square, many of whom were
with confraternities on pilgrimage to Rome for the Year of Faith.
The
Holy Father also noted, in the context of that pilgrimage, that love
for the Virgin “is one of the characteristics of popular piety that
must be esteemed and well-ordered. That is why I invite those present
to reflect on the final chapter of the Vatican II Constitution on
the Church, 'Lumen Gentium', that speaks precisely of Mary in the
mystery of Christ and the Church. It says that Mary 'advanced in her
pilgrimage of faith'. …. In the Year of Faith I leave you this icon
of Mary the pilgrim, who follows Jesus the Son, and precedes all of
us in the journey of faith.”
Then,
explaining that the Oriental Churches that follow the Julian Calendar
are celebrating Easter today, he sent a special greeting to them,
joining with all of them to proclaim “the joyful news: Christ is
risen! Gathered together around Mary in prayer, we ask God for the
gift of the Holy Spirit, the Paraclete, who may console and comfort
all Christians, especially those who are celebrating Easter through
trials and suffering, and guide us on the path of reconciliation and
peace.”
He
also mentioned yesterday's beatification, in Brazil, of of Francisca
de Paula de Jesus, known as “Nha Chica” saying, “her simple
life was dedicated to God and charity, in fact, they called her
'mother of the poor'. I join in with the joy of the Church in Brazil
for this luminous disciple of the Lord.”
Likewise
he affectionately greeted all the confraternities present, “coming
from many countries. Thank you for your witness of faith! I also
greet the parish groups and families, as well as the grand parade of
various military bands and associations coming from Germany.”
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