YouTube video van paus Benedictus XVI die spreekt tot de gelovigen die op het feest van de H. Familie (27 december) zijn verzameld in Madrid. YouTube video van paus Benedictus XVI die spreekt tot de gelovigen die op het feest van de H. Familie (27 december) zijn verzameld in Madrid.

“I welcome all the pastors and faithful gathered in Madrid to celebrate with joy the Holy Family of Nazareth. How can we forget the true meaning of this event? God, by having come into the world in the bosom of a family, shows that this institution is a sure way to meet and know Him, and a permanent call to work for the loving unity of all people. Thus, one of the greatest services which we as Christians can offer our fellow men and women is to show them the serene and solid witness of a family founded upon marriage between a man and a woman, defending it and protecting it, because it is of supreme importance for the present and future of humankind.

In truth, the family is the best school in which to learn to live the values that dignify individuals and make peoples great. Thereto sufferings and joys are shared and everyone feels cloved in the affection that rains in the home by the mere fact of being members of the same family. I pray that your homes will always experience this love of total commitment and fidelity that Jesus brought to the world by his birth. Nourishing it and strengthening it with daily prayer, the constant practice of virtue and with mutual understanding and respect. I encourage you trusting in the maternal intersession of Mary most Holy, queen of families, and the powerful protection of Saint Josef, her husband, to tirelessly dedicate yourselves to this beautiful mission that the Lord has placed in your hands.

Be sure of my closeness and affection and I pray you carry a special greeting from the pope to those of your loved ones who suffer greatest need or difficulties. I bless all of you.”