Sunday 24 April, 2005

The inauguration Mass to install Joseph Ratzinger as Pope Benedict XVI, the 265^th Pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church took place this morning in Saint Peter’s Square. Once again, I am impressed at how Rome prepared for a crowd of 500, 000 people. I guess by now, they have gotten used to handling such large numbers, but they seem to do it with such ease. There are plenty of people around helping with information services and also security both to protect and also to direct the pilgrims on the best way to keep things flowing smoothly.

A group of us from Collegio Santa Monica and the Augustinian General Curia went over to wait in line for security at 7:30 this morning, and after a fairly short wait we found our places in plenty of time for the beginning of the 10:00 services. The Mass began with the new Pope and cardinals descending the stairs in the Basilica to go to the area right above where the bones of St. Peter are kept. This is the place where one can see the box containing the Palliums which, each year, are given by the Pope to new bishops on the feast of Peter and Paul (June 29^th). After incensing the area, the pallium and the new ring, which will be given to the new Pope, were carried in procession up the stairs and then through the Basilica to the gathering congregation outside in the Piazza. When Benedict XVI reached the altar another large cheer came from the crowd to which he responded with a wide grin and the now familiar gesture of open arms raised in the air.

During his homily, the Pope spoke of listening and not being afraid. He spoke of relying on the prayers of everyone and his desire to bring people of all faiths together. He talked of the ministry of being a Pastor and Fisherman, both images which are associated with the papacy. For the past few days there have been newspaper articles and various reports saying how much our new Pope Benedict is influenced by the thoughts of St. Augustine. He certainly made that clear in his homily today. I was even told that the design of the shells which were on the Pope’s chasuble today relate back to the story of Augustine and the child at the beach.

At the end of the Mass, Benedict XVI boarded the unprotected pope-mobile and rode past our section and through the crowds in the Piazza. A tangible energy filled the people as we witnessed a new beginning in our church. I believe that we are all now anxious to see and to experience what type of leadership Benedict XVI will bring to the Catholic Church. He has reappointed all those who led the various areas of Vatican governance, which some read as a sign that he wants to continue with the same style of church governance we experienced with John Paul II.

As the large crowds of pilgrims slowly go back to their respective countries and life here in Rome goes back to normal, we all return to our regular routines. However, we bring with us a message from Benedict XVI to pray that the Lord will carry us in our journeys and that we will learn to carry one another. AMEN!