Mary is a model of gratitude, Pope says at jubilee Mass
October 10, 2016
Preaching at Mass in St. Peter’s Basilica on October 9, Pope Francis described the Blessed Virgin Mary as “a model, indeed the model” of gratitude in the Christian life.
The Mass was the culmination of the Marian Jubilee, which took place in Rome from October 7-9 as part of the extraordinary jubilee of mercy.
Reflecting on the day’s Gospel reading (Lk. 17:11-19), in which only one of ten lepers expressed gratitude, Pope Francis asked:
Are we capable of saying “Thank you”? How many times do we say “Thank you” in our family, our community, and in the Church? How many times do we say “Thank you” to those who help us, to those close to us, to those who accompany us through life? Often we take everything for granted! This also happens with God. It is easy to approach the Lord to ask for something, but to return and give thanks …
“It also takes humility to be able to give thanks, the Pope added, as he reflected on the example of Naaman, mentioned in the first reading. “The heart of Mary, more than any other, is a humble heart, capable of accepting God’s gifts. In order to become man, God chose precisely her, a simple young woman of Nazareth, who did not dwell in the palaces of power and wealth, who did not do extraordinary things.”
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Further information:
- Holy Mass for the Marian Jubilee (YouTube Vatican)
- Santa Messa in occasione del Giubileo Mariano, 09.10.2016 (Holy See Press Office)
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