The Cycle of Catechesis for Jubilee 2025: Jesus Christ our Hope – The Infancy of Jesus: “The Annunciation. Mary listens and is willing (cf. Lk 1:26-38)”
Dear brothers and sisters, good morning!
Welcome back to the Jubilee cycle of catechesis on Jesus Christ our hope. Today, we delve into the profound moment of the Annunciation, where Mary’s life is forever changed by the divine message.
As Luke’s Gospel unfolds, we witness the power of God’s Word reaching Mary, a young woman in the humble village of Nazareth. This unexpected encounter with the angel Gabriel in a marginalized area of Israel brings a message that shakes Mary to her core.
Unlike any other greeting, Gabriel’s words to Mary are filled with joy and grace. The name “kecharitoméne” bestowed upon Mary signifies her divine calling and the presence of God’s love within her. This unique encounter with the divine reassures Mary, “Do not be afraid,” echoing the comforting words spoken to the faithful throughout history.
Through Gabriel’s message, Mary is called to a mission that transcends human understanding. She is chosen to be the mother of the long-awaited Messiah, Jesus, who will bring salvation to all. This profound calling fills Mary with trust and opens her heart to the transformative power of God’s Spirit.
Mary’s humble acceptance of her role as the mother of Jesus exemplifies her unwavering faith and willingness to serve God’s plan. She becomes a beacon of hope, illuminating the path for all believers to welcome the divine Word into their hearts and become vessels of His presence.
As we reflect on Mary’s extraordinary journey, let us learn from her example of faith and obedience. May we too open our hearts to God’s Word and allow His presence to transform us into bearers of hope and joy. Thank you!
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Special greetings:
I extend a warm welcome to English-speaking pilgrims, including those from Switzerland, the United States, and England. May this Jubilee season be a time of spiritual renewal and growth in the joy of the Gospel. As we observe the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, I also greet ecumenical groups and the Pontifical North American College.
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May God’s blessings of wisdom, strength, and peace be upon you and your families!
Summary of the Holy Father’s words:
Join us as we delve into the Jubilee cycle of catecheses on “Jesus Christ our Hope”. Today, we reflect on the unwavering trust displayed by the Virgin Mary when she received the message from the Archangel Gabriel that she was chosen to be the mother of the Messiah. Mary, known as “full of grace”, embraced her unique mission with open arms, cooperating with God to fulfill the hope of Israel and bring the Saviour into the world. Filled with the Holy Spirit, she continued to play a crucial role in God’s plan, as seen through her intercession at the wedding feast of Cana, which led to the first of Jesus’ miracles. Let us look to Mary as an example of trust in God’s promises, and strive to spread the hope of the Gospel through our actions, especially to those who are facing struggles and temptation to despair.
