Pope Francis opened the fourth Holy Door in Rome. It was in the Basilica of Saint Mary Major.
After Pope Francis presided over a Mass in which he explained that the Virgin Mary is the Mother of Forgiveness.
POPE FRANCIS
'At that time, Mary became Mother to all of us. As a Mother of forgiveness: she herself, followed the example of Jesus and his grace, she was able to forgive those who were killing her innocent Sonâ?.
Pope Francis explained that Mary is an icon of how the Church must offer forgiveness to those who seek it. The Mother of forgiveness teaches the Church that forgiveness is granted without limits.
POPE FRANCIS
'Mother of forgiveness teaches the Church about pardon offered on Golgotha, knowing no bounds. He can not stop the law with its tricks, no knowledge of this world with his distintions. The forgiveness of the Church must have the same amplitude as that of Jesus on the Cross, and Mary at his feet. Without alternativesâ?.
The Pope also urged Christians to be open to the joy of forgiveness that frees the soul.
POPE FRANCIS
'Forgiveness leads to joy and serenity because it frees the heart from thoughts of death, whereas resentment and vengeance trouble the mind and wound the heart, robbing it of rest and peace.â?
At the conclusion of the Mass, Pope Francis brought a bouquet of flowers to the patron saint of Rome, Maria Salus Populi Romani. Since becoming Pope, he visited this icon 30 times. A virgin saint most beloved by Romans.
Then he came to the door of the Basilica to greet the pilgrims who were outside and wished them a happy year full of God's Mercy.
The Basilica of Saint Mary Major is the fifth Holy Door Pope Francis opens after the Cathedral of Bangui, Central African Republic; St. Peter; the Saint John of Letran and Charity Door in a shelter for the homeless .
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