Five Years Ago Today: Annuntio vobis gaudium magnum! Habemus Papam!

Annuntio vobis gaudium magnum! Habemus Papam! (I announce to [all of] you great joy! We have a Pope!). These are the words, that rang over the great "gathering space" of the Universal Church, St. Peter's Square five years ago today. It is a message with great joy. Like joy in our heart as the deacon announces to us the great joy of the Alleluia at the Easter Vigil.

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On his recent pastoral visit to Malta, he noted the dark cloud over Europe. This was in reference to the volcanic cloud from Iceland, but could also be the dark cloud of the decaying European culture. Five years ago today, a ray of light shone through this darkness. I voice that is a great voice, not because he announces himself, but rather that he announces He in whom all things were made and have their being, Jesus Christ. The voice of moral truth in a world that prefers the darkness (cf. John 1:5 and 1:10-1).

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As he testifies to the light, so that all may believe.

Lord, source of eternal life and truth, give to your shepherd, Benedict, a spirit of courage and right judgment, a spirit of knowledge and love. By governing with fidelity those entrusted to his care, may he, as sucessor to the Apostle Peter and Vicar of Christ, build your Church into a sacrament of unity, love and peace for all the world. Amen.

Let us pray for Benedict, the Pope.

May the Lord preserve him, give him a long life, make him blessed upon the earth, and not hand him over to the powers of his enemies.

May your hand be upon your holy servant.

And upon your son, whom you have anointed.

Pater...

Ave...

Gloria...