Mercy will save the world: papal preacher's Good Friday meditation
Remembering this week's deadly terror attack in Brussels, the papal preacher centered his Good Friday reflection on mercy's role in saving the world.
"The opposite of mercy is not justice but vengeance," said Father Raniero Cantalamessa, OFM Cap, in his sermon for the Celebration of Our Lord's Passion in St. Peter's Basilica March 25.
His remarks come days after more than 30 people were killed and scores were injured by Islamic State suicide bombers at a Brussels airport and metro on March 22.
"In forgiving sinners God is renouncing not justice but vengeance; he does not desire the death of a sinner but wants the sinner to convert and live," he added.
Fr. Cantalamessa made this reflection to the congregation gathered in Saint Peter's Basilica following the chanting in Latin of the account of Christ's Passion and Death according to St. John. Pope Francis presided over the celebration, leading the faithful in the Veneration of the Cross, during which those present were invited to approach a wooden crucifix and kiss the feet of Jesus.
In his lengthy homily, the papal preacher also placed special emphasis on the role of mercy in saving marriage and the family, which is "the most precious and fragile thing in the world at this time."Also read: Pope Francis presides over Passion Liturgy in St. Peter's
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