Pope’s Sunday ‘Angelus’, condolence for Philippine typhoon victims

(December 19, 2011) Pope Benedict on Sunday urged Christians to trust in the power of God like Mary did at the Annunciation. Speaking to a large group of pilgrims who had gathered in Rome’s St. Peter’s Square to recite the weekly midday ‘Angelus’ prayer with him, the Pope shared a reflection on Sunday’s Gospel episode of the Angel’s annunciation to Mary. He spoke about the significance of Mary’s virginity in salvation history saying it is tied to faith. Her questioning of the angel does not indicate her doubt about the power of God, but she wants to better understand His will in order to fully comply with it. Her heart and mind are fully simple and humble, that is why God expects the "yes" of this young girl to achieve His purpose the Pope explained.. He respects her dignity and freedom, and thus Mary's "yes" means both motherhood and virginity. Those who trust deeply in God, welcome Jesus and his divine life within, through the action of the Holy Spirit. This, the Pope said is the mystery of Christmas.
After praying the ‘Angelus’ and imparting his blessing, the Holy Father expressed his concern over the devastation wreaked by Typhoon Washi, that lashed the Philippine island of Mindanao while its people slept late on Friday and early Saturday. The national disaster agency said on Monday 533 died and 309 remain missing, while the local Red Cross put the toll at 652 killed and more than 800 missing. “I want to assure my closeness to the populations of the southern Philippines, hit by a violent tropical storm,” the Pope said. He said he is praying for the victims, mostly children, the homeless and the many missing. Pope Benedict also recalled 22 members of the Oblates of Mary Immaculate and a layman who were killed for their faith in 1936 during the civil war in Spain. The Pope wished their sacrifice bear much fruit and reconciliation.