Angelus Prayer of Pope Benedict on the Assumption Day

(August 15, 2009) In the heart of August, a time of holidays for many families, the Church celebrates the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin. This is a privileged opportunity to meditate on the ultimate meaning of human existence, and to share the glory of Mary our Mother, said Pope Benedict on August 15^th during the Angelus on the feast of Assumption at Castel Gandolfo. He also reminded of the celebration of the memory of St Cure of Ars, the Holy Priest whose thoughts ideals we mainly the clergy ought to imitate, to renew the love and veneration to the Blessed Virgin. The Pope said that St. John Mary Vianney was speaking of the Virgin in devotion and said that the heart of this good Mother is only love and mercy. The Pope added that the Holy Curé of Ars was especially attracted by the beauty of Mary, the beauty that coincides with her being the Immaculate, the only creature conceived without a shadow of sin. He invited all mothers to follow the example of Mary to extend their love to children as Mary did. At the end of the audience greeting the English-speaking pilgrims and visitors gathered here at Castel Gandolfo and also in Saint Peter’s Square, the Pope said that as we celebrate the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin, we are invited to raise our eyes to heaven and contemplate Mary, the Mother of Jesus and our Mother. She who on earth believed in God’s word is now glorified in body and soul. May Mary’s intercession and example guide you always and renew your hearts in faith and hope. May God grant you and your families abundant blessings of peace and joy!