Upon the death of Pope Benedict XVI, we recall his inspirational messages to young people during his visit to Britain in 2010: "Dear young friends: only Jesus knows what “definite service” he has in mind for you. Be open to his voice resounding in the depths of your heart: even now his heart is speaking to your heart."
From the moment that Cain, blinded by envy, killed his brother Abel, humanity has been plagued by violence, wars, hatred and oppression. Yet, as Pope Francis reflects in this blog, God has been patient with us, never giving up, but waiting for the moment when He would send us a great light in the form of His Son. What is important now, the Pope says, is to seek the Lord.
O Emmanuel, you are our king and judge, the One whom the peoples await and their Saviour. O come and save us, Lord our God.
O King whom all the peoples desire, you are the cornerstone which makes all one. O come and save man whom you made from clay.
O Rising Sun, you are the splendour of eternal light and the sun of justice. O come and enlighten those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death.
O key of David and sceptre of Israel, what you open no one else can close again; what you close no one can open. O come and lead the captive from prison; free those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death.
