The Marian Jubilee, held this weekend at the Vatican, kicked off on the feast day of Our Lady of the Rosary. Thus, on the following day, Pope Francis led the visiting pilgrims in the recitation of the Glorious mysteries of the Holy Rosary on Saturday after various songs and dances dedicated to the Virgin.
There were also processions with statues of Mary and other attendees held various images of the Blessed Mother in the crowd, representing her from every nation and tongue.
In the pope's rosary mediation that followed, he dove into the mysteries, explaining the significance not only each one, but also the rosary as a whole.
POPE FRANCIS
'From the earliest centuries, Mary has been invoked as Mother of Mercy. The prayer of the rosary is, in many ways, the synthesis of the history of God's mercy. Through prayer and meditation on the life of Jesus Christ, we see once more his merciful countenance, which He shows to everyone in all the many needs of life. Mary accompanies us along this journey, pointing to her Son who radiates the very mercy of the Father.â?
The following day, on Sunday, the pope celebrated a Mass for the pilgrims. He reflected on the Gospel passage of the 10 lepers who were suffering and came to Jesus for help and healing. Just as Mary followed the will of God and obeyed Him, these lepers also obeyed Jesus and acted out of faith, which ended up healing them.
However, Pope Francis recalled how the other nine lepers forgot their 'Healerâ? and only one returned to give thanks.
POPE FRANCIS
'Let us ask Our Lady to help us recognize that everything is Godâ??s gift, and to be able to say 'Thank you.â? Then our joy will be complete.â?
The pope challenged the pilgrims, asking if they were prepared to accept the gifts of God or if they would rather be caught up in the security of money, intellect and personal plans.
He reminded the people to cling to the simple faith of Mary and to return to Jesus with thanksgiving for His mercy.
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