Cardinal Parolin’s Inspiring Message at Novemdiales Mass: ‘Discovering Mercy at the Heart of Faith’ – Vatican News

Cardinal Pietro Parolin led a heartfelt Mass on Divine Mercy Sunday to honor the late Pope Francis, emphasizing the importance of mercy in connecting Christians with one another and with Christ.

During this Mass, part of the nine days of mourning for the late Pope, Cardinal Parolin spoke about finding peace through Christ’s mercy. He drew parallels to the Gospel, which depicts the confusion and sorrow of the Apostles after Jesus’ death. He noted that this mirrors the Church’s current sense of loss following the Pope’s passing on Easter Monday.

“We feel deep grief, sadness, and bewilderment,” Cardinal Parolin recognized, comparing it to the Apostles’ mourning. Yet in this darkness, he reminded everyone that Christ’s resurrection brings hope and light. “Pope Francis often reminded us of this joy throughout his papacy,” he said.

The Mass attracted many young attendees, coinciding with the Jubilee for Teenagers. Cardinal Parolin encouraged the youth to embrace the joy of Easter, even amidst sorrow, stating, “Jesus gives us courage to live.” He highlighted the limitless nature of God’s mercy, which is central to Pope Francis’ teachings.

“Our love for him should inspire us to carry on his legacy,” Cardinal Parolin urged, emphasizing the need to open our hearts to God’s mercy and to extend that mercy to others.

He explained that mercy is foundational to faith, shaping our understanding of our relationship with God and our identity as a Church. “The Gospel’s true message is about being loved by a compassionate God, regardless of our shortcomings,” he said. “Only through mercy can we rise after our failures and look toward the future.”

Cardinal Parolin, a long-time collaborator with Pope Francis, asserted that mercy is essential for healing and creating a better world, quelling hatred and violence. He urged the Church to be instruments of mercy, welcoming those open to God’s love.

He highlighted Pope Francis’ belief that genuine peace comes from acknowledging one another and the act of mutual forgiveness. Concluding the Mass, he expressed gratitude to the dedicated workers of the Roman Curia and Vatican City State for their ongoing service.”

As he wrapped up, he entrusted the congregation to the care of the Blessed Virgin Mary, reflecting how deeply the late Pope valued her intercession. “May she guide us and help humanity on its path to peace and fraternity,” he said.

In a world grappling with division and strife, the teachings of mercy resonate more than ever. Recent studies have shown that communities embracing acts of kindness and forgiveness foster stronger bonds and resilience. As the Church navigates this period of loss, Cardinal Parolin’s messages remind us all of the strength found in compassion and understanding.

For further insights on the power of mercy in building communities, check out this report from the [Pew Research Center](https://www.pewresearch.org), highlighting the societal benefits of empathy and connection.

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mercy, Pietro Parolin, mass, sede vacante