Vatican City, Dec 8, 2018 / 08:43 am
On the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception, Pope Francis encouraged Catholics to imitate Mary's deep trust and openness to God when faced with serious problems.
"Today we look at the beauty of Our Lady, who was born and lived without sin, always docile and transparent with God. This does not mean that life was easy for her. Living with God does not magically solve problems," Francis told pilgrims in St. Peter's Square Dec. 8.
Pope Francis highlighted Mary's radical trust at the moment of the Annunciation found in her response to the angel, "Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word."
"Why not start your days like this? It would be nice to say every morning: 'Here I am, Lord, today your will be done in me," Pope Francis said, noting that the Angelus prayer provides an opportunity to repeat Mary's words.