Rome, Italy, Jun 24, 2010 / 09:17 am
The Holy Father left the Apostolic Palace on Thursday morning to bless a statue of Mary perched on a hill just a short distance north of the Vatican. While blessing the statue and venerating Mary, he commented on the importance of charity as the "best apologist for the Catholic faith" and as a tangible expression of God’s love.
The purpose of the Pope’s visit was to bless the newly restored statue of Mary which fell and broke into three pieces during a heavy storm last October. The enormous figure, known locally as the “Madonnina,” was erected in Rome’s Monte Mario quarter in 1953 in thanksgiving for answered prayers for a peaceful transition from Nazi rule of the city during the Second World War.
Addressing those present at the “Don Orione” Center where the statue is located, Pope Benedict recognized the homage it gives to Mary and its role in making her present in the daily lives of the people from its perch high above the city.
The Holy Father also prayed aloud for the faithful that Our Lady, “Mother of God and ours, might be always at the top of your thoughts and your affection, friendly comfort of your souls, sure guide of your wills and support for your steps, persuasive inspirer of the imitation of Jesus Christ.”