Urbi et Orbi translates into "to the City (of Rome) and to the World." Best of all, there is a plenary indulgence attached to the message and blessing.
The Urbi et Orbi message for today comes from 2007.
The Pope emphasizes light in this message. With such an important event in human history, only Mary, Joseph, and some shepherds were privy to the entrance of light into the darkness of this world. Later on, magi, "old man Simeon," and Anna were also introduced to this great light.
His Holiness repeats the Gospel Acclamation for the Christmas Day Mass "A holy day has dawned upon us." Christ is the light that finally pierces the darkness. Even though only a few witnessed it at first, it persisted and grew to finally drive out the darkness entirely. Pope Benedict XVI calls us to accept that light, and to allow it (Him) to drive out the darkness from our own hearts. "In the silence of that night in Bethlehem, Jesus was born and lovingly welcomed. And now, on this Christmas Day, when the joyful news of his saving birth continues to resound, who is ready to open the doors of his heart to the holy child?"
His Holiness calls us to open those doors and to let in that light! "Men and women of this modern age, Christ comes also to us bringing his light, he comes also to us granting peace!...Yes! His message of peace is for everyone; he comes to offer himself to all people as sure hope for salvation." This is most special and comforting to those who suffer from sin, both committed personally and committed communally (injustice, in other words).
We can bring this light to those who suffer from injustice. In fact, it's our duty. We need to spread and share this light throughout the darkness, and bring other people into the light. But to do this, we ourselves must be in the light. We must accept it into our hearts and allow it to spill forth and brighten our home, our friends, our neighbors, and our country.
Pope Benedict XVI concludes by urging us to join Mary, Joseph, the shepherds, the magi, Simeon, and Anna, in worship and adoration before the light of the world, the lux magna (great light). "Let us too, brothers and sisters from every continent, allow the light of this day to spread everywhere: may it enter our hearts, may it brighten and warm our homes, may it bring serenity and hope to our cities, and may it give peace to the world."
Day I (2005), Day II (2006), Day III (2007), Day IV (2008), Day V (2009), Day VI (2010), Day VII (2011)
No comments:
Post a Comment