The Angelus Message

(January 1, 2009) The Pope said that by the grace of the Lord - and only with it - can ever again hope that the future is better than the past. It is not to trust in modern market and finance, but to strive to be ourselves to be good and responsible, and to rely on the kindness of the Lord. And this is always possible, because "God has spoken to us by a Son" and continually speaks to us through the preaching of the Gospel and through the voice of our conscience.
The Pope then said that while celebrating the Divine Maternity of Mary, the Church has also celebrated for over 40 years, the World Day of Peace, telling all that Jesus Christ is the Prince of Peace. With the theme: "Combating poverty, building peace," the Pope said that he wants to invite into dialogue the leaders of nations and international organizations, offering the contribution of the Catholic Church, to promote a new world order. He said: “At the beginning of a new year, my first objective is to invite all leaders and ordinary citizens, not to be discouraged at the difficulties and failures, but to renew their commitment.”
Referring to the economic crisis of 2008, the Pope said that this crisis should be read in depth, as a symptom that requires serious action on the causes. The Pope then added saying: “Jesus Christ has not organized campaigns against poverty, but announced the Gospel to the poor, for a ransom by the full moral and material poverty. This makes the Church, with its unceasing work of evangelization and human promotion. I invoke the Virgin Mary, Mother of God, to help all people to walk along the Path of Peace.” Pope Benedict then thanked all those who have submitted expressions wishes for the New Year. In particular, he expressed his gratitude to the President of the Italian Republic with the best wishes for peace and prosperity.
I am very pleased to greet the English-speaking visitors present at today's Angelus, and I wish you all a happy New Year! I pray that Christians everywhere, through the intercession of Mary, Mother of God, will be filled with spiritual joy. During this year, may all who believe in Christ promote justice and charity, and bear constant witness to forgiveness, reconciliation and peace! May the Lord bless you and keep you!