Pope Remembers Missionary Martyrs During Regina Caeli

(24 Mar 08 - RV) After a hectic schedule of Easter ceremonies Pope Benedict XVI recited the Regina Caeli on Monday from the tranquillity of the Papal residence at Castelgandolo in the Roman Hills where he will spend the week recuperating.
The Holy Father spoke about the Glorious Resurrection of the Lord saying that the Light of the Risen Christ had added significance on this Easter Monday because it is the annual day of prayer and fasting, although with a smile he said perhaps not fasting today, commemorating those Missionary Martyrs, Bishops, Priests, religious men and women and the laity who died in the service of others.

Pope Benedict said, we remember the long list of these men and women who died in 2007 while giving of themselves in missionary service. It is, he continued a stimulus for everyone of us who testify in a more courageous way our faith and our hope in Jesus who on the Cross was victorious over hatred and Violence with the omnipotence of his love.

The Pope also reflected on how after the days of Lent the tones of the “Alleluia” “Praise the Lord” ring out once more. This Easter period, he said is an invitation to praise God with open mouths and open hearts.

The Holy Father continued by saying that this “Alleluia” resounded from the hearts of the disciples of Jesus on that Easter morning in Jerusalem. It seems as if, said the Pope, their shouting can almost be heard. Like Mary Magdalene who first saw the risen Lord in the Garden near Calvary, or the cries of the women who met Jesus while running to tell the disciples the tomb was empty. We can almost hear too said Pope Benedict the voices of the two disciples who encountered the Lord on the road to Emmaus.

After the Regina Caeli the Pope noted another event which is marked annually on March 24^th, World Tuberculosis Day. The Holy Father said he was especially near to the sick and to their families and hoped that that with increased commitment on a global level this scourge could be eradicated.


Easter Sunday had seen a rain soaked and thunder stricken St Peters Square, but even Castelgandolo on this Easter Monday did not escape the drizzling rain as pilgrims huddled under the protection of umbrellas listened to the pope as he greeted them in a number of languages including English.
 To the English-speaking pilgrims gathered for today’s Regina Caeli, I offer greetings of Easter joy. Christ has conquered the world! His victory over sin and death fills our hearts with burning hope. As we celebrate the Paschal feast, let us radiate his peace, grace and love in all we say and do. Happy Easter!
The Holy Father concluded his address with a warm greeting and to the officials and residents of Castelgandolfo whom he thanked for their continuous hospitality.