Alerts Sign-up
Mary serves as a model of openness to the Holy Spirit, Pope Francis stated during an audience at the Vatican. He emphasized that her acceptance of God's plan for salvation exemplifies the attitude Christians should adopt.
Pope Francis urged believers to be receptive to the Holy Spirit's inspirations, especially when prompted to assist others, just as Mary did after receiving the angel's message and visiting her cousin Elizabeth.
In his ongoing series about the Holy Spirit's role in church life, Pope Francis discussed how devotion to Mary facilitates a deeper connection with Jesus. "The true and only mediator between us and Christ, indicated as such by Jesus himself, is the Holy Spirit," he noted. "Mary is one of the means the Holy Spirit uses to bring us to Jesus."
"Our Lady helps us see Jesus. She opens doors," he added. "Our Lady is the mama who takes us by the hand and leads us to Jesus. Our Lady never points to herself; she points to Jesus, and that's what Marian piety is."
Addressing misconceptions about Catholic practices, Pope Francis clarified that Catholics do not worship Mary but seek her assistance in drawing closer to Jesus, echoing the saying: "to Jesus by means of Mary."
He referenced Mary's response to Angel Gabriel—"Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word"—as a straightforward example for Christians on following God's will through availability and acceptance.
"Mary is the one who said 'yes' to God," he explained. Her example encourages believers to also say 'yes' whenever faced with challenges or acts of obedience.
Concluding his address in St. Peter’s Square, Pope Francis reminded attendees not to forget countries embroiled in conflict. "Brothers and sisters, the beleaguered Ukraine is suffering; do not forget Ukraine." He called for prayers for peace in Palestine, Israel, Myanmar, and other nations experiencing war.
