Cardinal Pietro Parolin emphasized the importance of Pope Francis's legacy of mercy during a Mass on Divine Mercy Sunday. The Mass, held in St. Peter's Square, coincided with the Jubilee for Teenagers and the second day of mourning for the late Pope. Parolin stated that the Church must embrace Pope Francis's teachings and actions, which were characterized by the Father's mercy. He encouraged believers to welcome and live out Pope Francis's legacy of mercy in their lives and towards others. The Cardinal highlighted that mercy is a central theme of faith and a key to healing and creating a new world.
9 days ago
Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican Secretary of State, presided over the Divine Mercy Sunday Mass in St. Peter's Square during the novendiales, the nine days of mourning for the late Pope Francis 1 3. Parolin's homily centered on the need for the Church to continue Pope Francis's work as "instruments of mercy for humanity" 1. He emphasized that mercy is the "great teaching of Pope Francis" and the defining characteristic of his papacy 1 6.
Cardinal Parolin stressed that Pope Francis's papacy was characterized by the Father's mercy and his intense apostolic activity 1 3. He described Pope Francis as a "shining witness of a Church that bends down with tenderness towards those who are wounded and heals with the balm of mercy" 1. Parolin urged the Church to welcome Pope Francis's legacy by opening itself to God's mercy and being merciful to one another 1. He also highlighted Pope Francis's deep devotion to the Virgin Mary, noting his choice to be buried in the Basilica of Saint Mary Major 6 8.
Tens of thousands of young pilgrims, who participated in the Jubilee of Teenagers, attended the Divine Mercy Mass 1 3. Cardinal Parolin addressed the youth, encouraging them to be close to Jesus Christ and show His "merciful face" to others 1. He conveyed Pope Francis's affection for them, expressing that the late Pope would have liked to meet and greet them personally 1 6. Parolin urged the teenagers to hold fast to the hope that comes from Christ, even amidst the challenges of the modern world, including technology and artificial intelligence 6 8.
The Mass took place during a period of mourning for Pope Francis, creating a bittersweet atmosphere 6. Despite the sadness, the presence of the young pilgrims and the celebration of Divine Mercy Sunday brought a sense of Easter joy 6 8. Cardinal Parolin acknowledged this duality, recognizing the visible sign of Easter joy even amid the Church's grief 6. He emphasized that the joy of Easter sustains believers during times of trial and sadness 7.
Cardinal Parolin's prominent role in the mourning ceremonies, including presiding over the Divine Mercy Sunday Mass, has led to speculation about his potential as a papal candidate 4. His emphasis on continuing Pope Francis's legacy and his extensive experience in diplomacy position him as a possible frontrunner 4. However, some observers suggest that his close ties to the institution might represent a step backward from the reforms initiated by Pope Francis 4.
On Divine Mercy Sunday, Pope Francis's pontificate emphasizes God's profound love and mercy for humanity . This day, observed on the Second Sunday of Easter, is an opportunity to reflect on the message of Divine Mercy, which offers pardon, strength, aid, and love to all .
In summary, Divine Mercy Sunday, as emphasized by Pope Francis, is a call to embrace and live out God's mercy in our daily lives, fostering compassion, forgiveness, and solidarity with others .