The month of May and the forthcoming apostolic journey to Brazil have been the focus of Benedict XVI’s reflections, before he introduced, in Saint Peter’s Square yesterday morning, the prayer of Regina Caeli. "The month of May has just started, which for many Christian communities commented the Pope is the epitome of the Marian months. As such, over the centuries it has become one of people’s most beloved celebrations and has been increasingly promoted by the Ministers as a favourable opportunity for preaching, catechesis and joint prayer". After the Second Vatican Council, which highlighted Mary’s role within the Church and within the history of salvation, highlighted the Holy Father, "the devotion to Mary has gone through a dramatic renewal. And the month of May, as it coincides, at least partly, with the time of Easter, is extremely favourable for illustrating the figure of Mary as a Mother who leads the community of the disciples, gathered in joint prayer, waiting for the Holy Spirit". This month, therefore, he added, "can be an opportunity to go back to the faith of the original Church and, in communion with Mary, understand that our mission is still to announce and bear witness, with courage and joy, to Christ Crucified and Resurrected, the hope of mankind". (continued)
