August 16, 2011. (Romereports.com) Castel Gandolfo is the summer residence of the popes, where they commemorate the Assumption of the Virgin Mary every August 15th. As tradition, Benedict XVI celebrated Mass in the parish of St. Thomas of Villanova. He noted that like the Virgin Mary, Christians must respond quickly to the call of God.


Benedict XVI
“It's important to highlight the expression 'in a hurry'. The things of God deserve a quick and diligent response. Indeed, the only things in the world that deserve speed are precisely those of God, that are truly necessary for our life.”

The pope explained the significance of the Old Testament's Ark of the Covenant. It was here that the 10 commandments carried by Moses were kept. And it served as a symbol of God's presence with his people. Benedict XVI said the Virgin Mary is the new Ark of the Covenant.

Benedict XVI
“Mary is the new Ark of the Covenant, by which the heart is filled with joy. The Mother of God is present in the world, not only for her divine presence, but she offers to share the grace of God. From this – as in the words of prayer - Mary in reality is the 'cause of our joy', the 'Ark' in which the Savior is present among us.”

The pope also noted the Virgin Mary is the best way to reach God.

Benedict XVI
“On this Solemnity of the Assumption, we look to Mary: She gives us hope, a future full of joy and she teaches us the way to achieve it: accept in faith, in her Son, never lose the friendship with Him, remain enlightened and guided by his word, follow him every day, even in moments when we feel our crosses heavy upon us.”

Before returning to the Apostolic Palace, the pope stopped by the town hall of Catelgandolfo to examine another plaque. It includes his words from July 7 last year in Castel Gandolfo saying: “Here I find it all: mountains, lake, sea ... and good people.”



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