September 22, 2011. (Romereports.com) Surrounded by roughly 74,000 people in Berlin's Olympic Stadium, the pope celebrated Mass. He reflected on the parable of the grapevine, as a way to symbolize unity, not only in the Church but also in the Eucharist.
Surrounded by roughly 74,000 people in Berlin's Olympic Stadium, the pope celebrated Mass. He reflected on the parable of the grapevine, as a way to symbolize unity, not only in the Church but also in the Eucharist.
Benedict XVI
“I am the true vine actually means: 'I am you and you are I'- an unprecedented identification of the Lord with us, his Church.”
The stadium was transformed into an improvised Church, where the dome, framed the night's sky. Sitting close to the altar, was the president of Germany's parliament and his wife. Next to them was Chancellor Angela Merkel.
Amid this striking setting, the pope said the message of the grapevine, can help those who at times feel helpless or alone.
Benedict XVI
“In such times of hardship we can sometimes feel as if we ourselves were in the wine-press, like grapes being utterly crushed. But we know that if we are joined to Christ we become mature wine. God can transform into love even the burdensome and oppressive aspects of our lives.”
The pope recognized some of the challenges the Church is currently going through. But he invited people to not only focus on the negative, but also on the Church's strengths.
Benedict XVI
“The sad experience that the Church contains both good and bad fish, wheat and darnel, and if only these negative aspects are taken into account, then the great and deep mystery of the Church is no longer seen.”
It was the first of many Masses pope Benedict XVI will celebrate during his four day tour in his home country.
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