Pope’s Easter Monday ‘Regina Coeli’

(April 13, 2009) The Christian community gladly forges ahead amidst difficulties and trials of life because it is anchored in the hope and certitude that the divine plan of God’s salvation will certainly be fulfilled. Pope Benedict made the reflection on Easter Monday while addressing a small crowd at the papal summer residence of Castelgandolfo, outside Rome, where he is resting a while after a hectic Holy Week schedule. “The Christian community rejoices because the Resurrection of the Lord assures us that the divine plan of God will certainly be fulfilled. That is why Easter is truly our hope,” the Pope said before reciting the Eastertide “Regina Coeli’ Marian prayer at midday. “Having risen with Christ through Baptism, we must now follow him faithfully in holiness of life walking steadily towards the eternal Easter, aware that the difficulties, struggles, the trials and sufferings of human existence, including death, can never ever separate us from Him and his love,” the Pope said. Christ’s assurance, “I have risen and am with you forever,” is particularly experienced in the Eucharist, the Pope said. “It is in this Sacrament that the Lord purifies us, nourishes us spiritually and strengthens us to face the harsh trials of life and to fight sin and evil,” the Pope added.
Pope Benedict also addressed English-speaking pilgrims and visitors in the crowd. LISTEN:
I am pleased to welcome all the English-speaking pilgrims to this Regina Coeli. My dear friends, our song of joy on the night of Jesus’s Resurrection – “Rejoice heavenly powers! Exult all creation!” – continues to resound throughout these eight days of solemn celebration. The Lord of heaven and earth has arisen in glory! His splendour continues to shine upon the human race, giving strength to the weak, relief to the suffering and comfort to the dying. I pray that Christ’s gift of new life will grow in your hearts and lead you along the way of eternal salvation. God bless you all!