August 16, 2012. (Romereports.com) From his summer residence in the Italian village of Castel Gandolfo, Pope Benedict XVI prayed the Angelus.
Pilgrims gathered in the town square to listen as the Pope spoke about the Assumption of Our Lady which is celebrated every August 15th.
Benedict XVI
“Today we celebrate the Solemnity of the Assumption of Our Lady. May the example and prayers of Mary, Queen of Heaven, inspire and sustain us on our pilgrimage of faith, that we may rejoice with her in the glory of the resurrection and the fulfillment of her Son’s promises.”
The Pope also explained the act of Mary's Assumption, when her body and soul went to heaven at the end of her life. He noted that even though it was officially proclaimed by the Church in 1950 by Pope Pius XII, it was something that Christians had always believed and celebrated.
The crowds cheered as Benedict XVI waved good-bye and wished them all a happy holiday in honor of the Assumption of Mary.
