Vatican City, Dec 8, 2013 / 09:52 am
On the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, Pope Francis focused his Sunday Angelus message on the importance of Mary as a model for the Christian life.
"The Virgin Mary is not far from this love (of God): all of her life, all of her being is a 'yes' to God," he said to the crowds filling St. Peter's Square Dec. 8.
"Let us look at her, and let us look to her," encouraged Pope Francis, "in order to be more humble, and even more courageous in following the Word of God, to receive the tender embrace of her son Jesus, an embrace that gives us life, hope, and peace."
Mary's 'yes' to God "was certainly not easy for her!" he exclaimed. "When the angel called her 'full of grace' she remained 'troubled,' because in her humility she felt unworthy before God."