Despite the cold, some 25,000 pilgrims gathered in St. Peter's Square to listen to the pope. In his Angelus, Pope Francis reflected on the third Sunday of Advent liturgy. He said it invites one to joy, as the Lord has come to save his people.
POPE FRANCIS
“No worry, no fear will ever be able to take away from us the serenity that comes from knowing that God guides our lives lovingly, always. Even in the midst of problems and suffering, this certainty nourishes hope and courage.”
He stressed that in order to accept God's invitation one needs to be willing to question themselves; and ask “what should I do?”
After the Angelus, the pope noted the recent “Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration” that took place in Marrakech, Morocco. He expressed his hopes in it to assist those in need.
POPE FRANCIS
“This instrument will be able to work with responsibility, solidarity and compassion towards those who, for various reasons, have left their country.”
Additionally, as is tradition for Christmas, the pope blessed the baby statues of Jesus that the many children of Rome had brought from their homes. He encouraged them to pray in front of their nativity scenes.
POPE FRANCIS
“In prayer before the manger, looking at the Child Jesus, you will feel amazement...You will ask me: what does 'amazement' mean? It is a strong feeling, more than a common emotion. It is to see God: the great mystery of God made man; and the Holy Spirit will give your heart the humility, tenderness and goodness of Jesus. Jesus is good, Jesus is tender, Jesus is humble. This is the true Christmas! Do not forget it. May this be so for you and for your families.”
The Roman Oratory Center had helped organized this blessing from the pope. The theme for this year was “All the joy in a manger.”
