POPE CATECHESIS IN ENGLISH:
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
In our continuing catechesis for this Holy Year of Mercy, we now conclude our treatment of the Old Testament with a consideration of Psalm 51, the Miserere.
This Psalm is traditionally seen as King Davidâ??s prayer for forgiveness following his sin with Bathsheba.
Its opening words: 'Have mercy on me, O God in your kindnessâ?, are a moving confession of sin, repentance and confident hope in Godâ??s merciful pardon. Together with a heartfelt plea to be cleansed and purified of his sin, the Psalmist sings the praise of Godâ??s infinite justice and holiness. He asks for the forgiveness of his great sin but also for the gift of a pure heart and a steadfast spirit, so that, thus renewed, he may draw other sinners back to the way of righteousness.
Godâ??s forgiveness is the greatest sign of his infinite mercy. Through the prayers of Mary, Mother of Mercy, may we become ever more convincing witnesses to that divine mercy which forgives our sins, creates in us a new heart, and enables us to proclaim Godâ??s reconciling love to the world.
I greet the English-speaking pilgrims and visitors taking part in todayâ??s Audience, including those from England, Ireland, Norway, Nigeria, Australia, Indonesia, Pakistan and the United States.
In the joy of the Risen Lord, I invoke upon you and your families the loving mercy of God our Father. May the Lord bless you all!
