On Divine Mercy Sunday, Cardinal Pietro Parolin celebrated Mass in a poignant suffrage for the late Pope Francis, emphasizing that the theme of mercy serves as a vital thread, intricately weaving connections among Christians and linking their lives to one another and to Christ.
This Mass was held on the second day of the Novemdiales, a nine-day period of mourning for Pope Francis, who passed away on Easter Monday and was laid to rest the following Saturday. In his homily, the 70-year-old Italian-born Cardinal encouraged attendees to seek solace in Christ’s boundless mercy as a source of peace for both the world and their personal hearts during this time of profound sorrow.
Drawing from the day’s Gospel, which captures the fear and despair of the Apostles as they sheltered in the Upper Room following the death of Jesus, Cardinal Parolin painted a vivid picture of the Church’s current emotional landscape. “The grief at his departure, the sense of sadness that assails us, the turmoil we feel in our hearts, the sense of bewilderment,” he articulated, “mirrors the experience of the Apostles mourning the death of their beloved leader.”
Yet, within this darkness, Cardinal Parolin offered a message of hope, affirming that Christ enters into our sorrow to unveil the glory of His resurrection and to illuminate our souls. “Pope Francis often reminded us of this truth throughout his papacy, placing the joy of the Gospel at the very center of his mission,” he stated.
The Mass was especially significant as it coincided with a scheduled Jubilee for Teenagers, drawing many young people into the fold. Cardinal Parolin took this opportunity to encourage the youth to embrace the joy of Easter, even amidst the pain of loss, underlining that Jesus provides us with the “courage to live,” empowering us to face our challenges and grief.
Reflecting on the Feast of Divine Mercy, Cardinal Parolin highlighted that Pope Francis’ teachings have profoundly emphasized the limitless nature of God’s mercy, a divine force that lifts us up and grants renewal. “Our affection for him, which is manifesting during this time of mourning,” he said, “should transcend mere emotional response. We must integrate his legacy into our lives, embracing God’s mercy and extending it to others.”
In concluding, Cardinal Parolin asserted that mercy is fundamental to the heart of faith, guiding us to reevaluate our relationship with God and our identity as members of the Church, grounded in divine principles rather than worldly concerns. This call to action invites all Christians to embody the merciful spirit that Pope Francis championed, fostering a community rooted in compassion and understanding.
