On the Feast of the Holy Family, the Cardinal Vicar for the Diocese of Rome invites us to lift up in prayer those families who are facing challenges and hardship. He reminds us that God is the ultimate source of love and unwavering hope, regardless of how far we may have strayed.
By Antonella Palermo
Leading the Sunday Mass on the Feast of the Holy Family, Cardinal Baldo Reina spoke about how pilgrims come to this place seeking to unburden themselves from the weight that the world imposes on them. As the Vicar General of the Diocese of Rome appointed by Pope Francis, he opened the Holy Door of the Papal Basilica of St. John Lateran, marking the commencement of the jubilee year in all dioceses.
The Mayor of Rome also graced the celebration, inaugurating the square in front of the Basilica and the area surrounding the Holy Staircase, now revitalized with lush patches of grass, circular fountains with water jets, and mist. The attendees, including religious groups, mothers with children, young families, devotees, students, and tourists from around the world, showcased the vibrancy, joys, concerns, and hopes of our global community.
“It’s truly an honor to be here,” expressed a woman accompanied by her mother. A young girl captured the sentiment of those unable to be present physically. “It’s crucial to be here, to transform our lives, as we are called to holiness,” remarked a nun from Mexico. “It holds great significance for us because without God, we are nothing,” shared a couple from New York with four children. “May the Lord instill hope in us and help us spread His message to the people,” prayed a woman from northern Italy.
In Communion with the Pope at His Cathedral
Around three thousand faithful gathered inside the Basilica for the celebration, while many others followed the proceedings live from outside. Cardinal Reina’s prayer, as he opened the Holy Door, sought God’s grace to accompany all who pass through it, that they may fruitfully experience this jubilee year as a united flock in the one sheepfold. The bronze door of the Holy Door was reverently opened amidst a moment of prayer, followed by the pealing of bells in the “mother of all churches,” set to the notes of the Jubilee hymn. In communion with Pope Francis, the faithful in his Cathedral were urged to join in prayer, assured of his spiritual support and joy.
Cardinal Reina, Vicar of the Diocese of Rome, during the Mass at the Basilica of Saint John Lateran
Closeness to Those Suffering
In his sermon, Cardinal Reina acknowledged “those who feel distant and unworthy,” and those burdened with “deep bitterness” in their hearts. He remembered the sick, prisoners, individuals grappling with pain, loneliness, poverty, and challenges. Offering words of encouragement, he urged that no one feel abandoned due to despondency or a loss of purpose, or have given up seeking the Father’s embrace. In a world marked by conflicts, discord, and inequalities, he called for an open embrace towards all.
Prayer for Families in Difficulty
In a “providential coincidence,” Cardinal Reina highlighted that this day aligns with the Feast of the Holy Family of Nazareth, exemplifying every household community and reflecting the Trinitarian communion. He urged everyone to see themselves as part of God’s family, tasked with fostering unity and mutual love. He particularly prayed for families enduring challenges and hardships. During the Mass, a specific prayer intention was offered for impoverished families, urging civil leaders to prioritize their needs and provide essential support for a more dignified future.
A moment during the opening of the Holy Door at the Basilica of Saint John Lateran
Welcoming God in Our Hearts and Homes
Cardinal Reina highlighted that “the Holy Door we crossed symbolizes the daily act of stepping into our homes. This open door has not only introduced us to the house of the Lord but also to the depths of His heart.” During the prayer for families before the Eucharistic celebration, a plea was made to the Spirit to guide the actions of spouses, ensuring that the growth of children, both human and Christian, finds support in the family. It was a prayer that the love sanctified by the marriage bond may triumph over any weakness and crisis.
Welcome to our blog post where we delve into the inspiring homily delivered by Cardinal Reina. He beautifully emphasized the importance of bringing God into our daily lives, relationships, and interactions. As we enter the doors of our homes, we are called to invite God into every aspect of our existence – from our families to our care for the elderly.
The Blessing of Being Children of God
Cardinal Reina also drew insights from the Parable of the Prodigal Son, shedding light on the profound concept of being children of God. He highlighted the gift of being God’s children, emphasizing that it is not something earned or deserved but bestowed upon us freely.
The Embrace of the Father as the Holy Door
Describing the Father’s open arms as the Holy Door, Cardinal Reina spoke of the unconditional love, tenderness, and hope they symbolize. No matter how far we may have strayed, the Father’s embrace is always open to welcome us back with blessings. This imagery of open arms serves as a reminder of the boundless mercy and forgiveness of God.
Through this open embrace, we are called to embody the essence of the Church and become beacons of hope and fraternity in our world. Cardinal Reina encouraged all to pass through the Holy Door with trust, embracing the goodness of the Lord and spreading joy and hope wherever we go.
