The Transformative Power of Encounter: Reflections from the Eighth Mass of Novemdiales
During the eighth Mass of the Novemdiales in memory of Pope Francis, Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime, former Pro-Prefect of the Dicastery for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life, delivered a powerful message to the faithful. He invited them to channel the apostles’ enthusiasm upon encountering the Risen Christ into a “life program” that serves as a model for those in great need of encountering the Lord today.
By Edoardo Giribaldi
Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime presided over the eighth Mass of the nine days of mourning, or Novemdiales, on Saturday afternoon, 3 May, in St. Peter’s Basilica. In his homily, he emphasized a new way of living rooted in love and reflected in the joy and wonder of the first disciples witnessing the Risen Christ. This example of radical transformation is one that all baptized individuals, especially those in consecrated life, are called to embody in a world that is longing to encounter the Lord.
Participation of Consecrated Women and Men
Before the Penitential Act, Sister Mary Barron, OLA, Superior General of the Congregation of Our Lady of the Apostles and president of the International Union of Superiors General (UISG), shared poignant reflections on behalf of consecrated women. She painted a vivid picture of Pope Francis as a humble and compassionate shepherd, overflowing with boundless love. She echoed the Pope’s call for humility and service, urging religious women to imitate Christ’s act of washing His disciples’ feet. Father Mario Zanotti, secretary of the Union of Superiors General, conveyed the condolences of all religious institutes, highlighting Pope Francis’ legacy of humanity and his ability to challenge the Church with his prophetic words.
Promoting an Encounter with the Lord
In his homily, Cardinal Fernández Artime invoked the words of Saint Alphonsus Maria de’ Liguori and Saint John Mary Vianney, underscoring the importance of prayer for the deceased as an act of love. He emphasized the need for all consecrated individuals to pray for Pope Francis and for the Church, recognizing the deep affection they hold for the Pontiff. Reflecting on the Gospel passage of the disciples encountering the Risen Christ, the Cardinal emphasized the transformative power of this encounter, which instilled in them a fearless faith that overcame all obstacles.
Quoting Pope Francis, Cardinal Fernández Artime underscored the necessity of encountering the Lord and His message of salvation in a world plagued by confusion and violence. He emphasized the need for a personal and powerful experience of the crucified and risen Christ, akin to that of the first disciples, to embolden believers today.
The Love of Christ
Referencing Saint John Paul II, the Cardinal described religious life as a prophetic presence that calls all baptized individuals to witness the love of Christ in service to the marginalized and the outcast. He stressed the importance of maintaining a steadfast commitment to the Gospel, even in the face of challenges and worldly distractions.
Presence in Difficult Moments
Recalling the teachings of Benedict XVI, Cardinal Fernández Artime urged consecrated men and women to be like sentinels, discerning and proclaiming the new life present in history. He highlighted the transformative power of encountering the Risen Christ, which brings light to darkness and renewed energy in times of despair.
Awakening the World
In conclusion, Cardinal Fernández Artime echoed Pope Francis’ call to religious individuals to awaken the world with pure hearts and spirits, recognizing Christ in the marginalized and forgotten. He invoked the intercession of Mary, Mother of the Church, to grant all the grace to be missionary disciples and witnesses of Christ in a world longing for hope and salvation.
