For another year, the month of March marks a sad anniversary. It’s now been seven years of war in Syria, a conflict with too many groups involved and whose consequences have been paid and continue to be paid by the same people – women and children. 

With no solution in sight, and in light of the constant suffering of thousands of innocent people, the Church has asked itself this question…

Pope Francis’s homily followed closely the homily proposed in the The Roman Pontifical for the Ordination of a Bishop. This text is a catechesis of the history and office of Bishop in the Catholic Church. It reminds us that:

“In the Bishop surrounded by his Priests, our Lord Jesus Christ himself, having become High Priest for ever, is present among you…

• Saint Joseph, with you, for you,
  we bless the Lord.
  He chose you among all men
  to be the chaste spouse of Mary,
  the one who would remain at the threshold of the mystery
  of her divine maternity,
  and who, after her, would accept it in faith
  as the work of the Holy Spirit…

Pope Francis’ remarks at Sunday’s Angelus focused on the Gospel of the day, which tells how a group of Greek pilgrims in Jerusalem wanted “to see Jesus.” The Lord’s response to these religious minded Greeks is “surprising”, the Pope said, but ultimately reveals a deeper truth than a simple yes or no answer. Jesus answers their desire by pointing to His imminent Passion and Death: “The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified.”

To know Jesus, look at the Cross

“One who wishes to know Jesus must gaze upon the Cross, where His glory is revealed,” Pope Francis said…