The tune “América Despierta,” “America awakens,” dedicated to Our Lady of Guadalupe, opened the celebration.
Pope Francis was accompanied by Card. Marc Ouellet, president of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America. Mexican Jorge Patrón Wong, secretary of the Congregation for the Clergy, was also present.
Most of the Mass, including the homily, was in Spanish. Pope Francis meditated on God's generosity, manifested through the Blessed Mother.
He also noted that God's first words in the Bible are words of blessing, to highlight the goodness of Creation. He said that is God's style, as opposed to that of the devil.
POPE FRANCIS
God's style is always to say what is 'good.' That's why to curse is the style of the devil, of the enemy. It's the style of meanness, of the incapacity to give oneself completely. It's saying evil things. God always says what is 'good.'
The celebration also included some prayers and songs in Portuguese.
This prayer was an intention for legislators, consecrated women, those who face temptation and those who have died.
The guitar accompaniment was noticeable throughout the liturgy. The offertory hymn was “Te ofrecemos, Señor,” “We offer to you, Lord.”
Prayers for Latin America were a big part of the Mass.
“...so that fraternity and peace will flourish in our lands.”
One of the protagonists was this girl, who “broke” security protocol to take a flower to Our Lady.
Very few people were allowed to enter the basilica because of the pandemic. Among attendees were representatives of the diplomatic body and some religious and lay men and women.
Although the number of participants was significantly lower than in previous years, the celebration maintained its usual spirit.
After Mass, the pope spent a few moments praying before Our Lady of Guadalupe. Then he exited the basilica, to the sound of the famous song, “La Guadalupana.”
Javier Romero
Translation: CT
