Pope Benedict XVI in English - Weekly General Audience
Dear Brothers and Sisters, Tomorrow we begin the Holy Triduum, the heart of the
entire liturgical year: a time when we immerse ourselves in the central events of
our Redemption. The Chrism Mass serves as a prelude to these three days, as priests
renew their promises to the Bishop, who then blesses the holy oils and consecrates
the chrism signifying the gift of the Holy Spirit. At the Mass of the Lord’s Supper,
we recall the institution of the Eucharist, the supreme sign of Christ’s love for
us. As we venerate his Cross on Good Friday, we contemplate the full meaning of his
words: “This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many” (Mk 14:24).
Holy Saturday finds us waiting in silent hope for the Easter Vigil, when every church
will break forth in a song of joy at the Lord’s Resurrection. The celebration of
the Paschal mystery recalls the depth of Christ’s love: he did not wish to exercise
his divinity as an exclusive possession, a means of domination, or a sign of distance
between him and us. Rather, “he emptied himself, taking the form of a servant” (Phil
2:7) by sharing fully in our human condition, even to the point of death: not a death
imposed by blind chance or fate, but one freely chosen in obedience to the Father’s
will for the salvation for all. May our fervent celebration of the Triduum draw us
ever more deeply into Christ’s Paschal mystery! *** I am pleased to greet the
English-speaking pilgrims present at today’s Audience. May your visit to Rome during
this Holy Week fill you with the peace, hope and joy of Christ Jesus!