Our classes today were cancelled at the last minute so that we could attend the Pope's final Wednesday audience. I'm so thankful that they were! It was packed, and even though I arrived four hours early, and had a ticket I did not get into the seated section of the square. Thank goodness I didn't, because instead I got to stand right next to the barrier at the juncture of three little alleys for the Popemobile. So not only did the Pope pass me once, he passed twice - literally less than ten feet from me! The French woman next to me had a huge Vatican flag that she asked a friend and I to help her wave, so the second time he passed we were waving it and he looked right at us, smiled and waved! It was an incredible experience that I will never forget! The audience itself was beautiful - the Pope truly loves the Church, and how grateful I am for his eight years as Pope, and his selfless decision. I was particularly touched by his words, "I have felt, and I feel even in this very moment, that one receives one's life precisely when he offers it as a gift." Certainly, this is exactly what Pope Benedict XVI is doing right now, offering himself and his life as a gift to Christ and the whole Church. If you are interested in reading it you can go to
http://www.news.va/en/news/pope-final-general-audience-full-text. It is such a blessing to be here at this time, and have the ability to take part in all of this - know that I carry each of you with me, and remember you in prayer as well.
Our classes today were cancelled at the last minute so that we could attend the Pope's final Wednesday audience. I'm so thankful that they were! It was packed, and even though I arrived four hours early, and had a ticket I did not get into the seated section of the square. Thank goodness I didn't, because instead I got to stand right next to the barrier at the juncture of three little alleys for the Popemobile. So not only did the Pope pass me once, he passed twice - literally less than ten feet from me! The French woman next to me had a huge Vatican flag that she asked a friend and I to help her wave, so the second time he passed we were waving it and he looked right at us, smiled and waved! It was an incredible experience that I will never forget! The audience itself was beautiful - the Pope truly loves the Church, and how grateful I am for his eight years as Pope, and his selfless decision. I was particularly touched by his words, "I have felt, and I feel even in this very moment, that one receives one's life precisely when he offers it as a gift." Certainly, this is exactly what Pope Benedict XVI is doing right now, offering himself and his life as a gift to Christ and the whole Church. If you are interested in reading it you can go to http://www.news.va/en/news/pope-final-general-audience-full-text. It is such a blessing to be here at this time, and have the ability to take part in all of this - know that I carry each of you with me, and remember you in prayer as well.
Hey Mary, That is AWESOME! I am super glad for you that you get this experience. Katie and I (and also many other people) enjoy reading your blog. You are also in our prayers. :)
ReplyDeleteMary, who would think when offered this opportunity that you would see history in the making. We encourage you to include a photo with the new pope in the near future as well! The Lord bless you!
ReplyDeleteWow! What an awesome experience! It's great that you get such a close look at history in the making. Such a beautiful quote from the pope as well - I will have to remember that one!
ReplyDeleteSo did you take this Picture of Papa Benny in the Pope Mobile?
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