In this homily during his pastoral visit to the parish of St Tommaso da Villanova in Castelgandolfo, Pope John Paul II expresses gratitude for the invitation and for the parishioners’ support of his ministry and service to pilgrims attending the Angelus. He greets the local Church, clergy, religious, and lay faithful, highlighting the parish’s spiritual dedication to Mary Assumed into Heaven. Celebrating the Eucharist, he reflects on the Lord as the Good Shepherd, whose grace, protection, and joy enable believers to face life’s duties and difficulties with confidence.

The Pope urges the faithful to seek the spiritual riches offered through Jesus Christ rather than relying on human strength. He warns that materialism and secularism can obscure these realities, calling for continual conversion of heart and mind. Reflecting on the wedding-banquet parable, he rejects pride and self-sufficiency and praises the humility that accepts God’s invitation to communion. Such acceptance must be wholehearted and expressed in good works, the “wedding garment” required for the Kingdom. He concludes by praying that the parish receive wisdom to understand the hope of its Christian vocation, entrusting the community to Mary’s intercession.