Father Marcos Paulo Cestare de Souza from the parish of Our Lady of Aparecida, episcopal vicar of the 4th pastoral region of the Presidente Prudente diocese, prepared with great care the solemn reception of Our Lady in the Częstochowa Icon in his city. During the ceremony, he delivered the following homily:
Today we have another reason to reflect on what the resurrection and eternal life are. Yesterday we received news of the death of Pope Francis. A man who dedicated his life to love, compassion and service to the poorest.
The sadness we feel is intense, but it is also a call to hope. Hope that is renewed in the certainty that he is already immersed in the love of God.
Pope Francis taught us to be the light of the world, to transform pain into love, and it is this call that we must carry forward. The resurrection of Christ gives us the certainty that eternal life awaits us and that those who pass away, like Pope Francis, continue to live in Christ.
In this context of reflection and hope, we also celebrate with great joy the presence of the pilgrim Icon of Our Lady of Częstochowa in our parish. The Black Madonna, known in Brazil as Our Lady of Monte Claro (of Jasna Góra), is a symbol of protection and intercession. She reminds us that even in difficult times, such as during World War II, when she was traditionally considered the protector of Poland, we are not alone.
The Mother of God accompanies us, guides us and strengthens us. Just as Mary Magdalene turned to Jesus in her grief, so we too are invited to turn to the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Black Madonna, asking for her intercession in moments of pain and sadness.
The icon of Our Lady of Częstochowa is a spiritual treasure that invites us to reflect on the faith we have in Mary, the Mother who welcomes us in all our suffering. She is the advocate who leads us to her Son, the one who comforts us and gives us the strength to face the adversities of life. Looking at her image, we are reminded of the maternal love that surrounds us; the love that comforts us and gives us the courage to act.
Dear brothers and sisters! As we celebrate the Octave of Easter, we are called to experience the joy of the resurrection, the hope of eternal life and the consolation that comes from the presence of the Mother of God in our lives. May we, like Mary Magdalene, recognize Jesus in our hearts and bring this joy to the world. May the light of the resurrection illuminate our paths, and may the witness of Pope Francis inspire us to be instruments of peace and justice.
So let us celebrate life, even if it accompanies us with pain.
Eternal life awaits us and with every act of love that we perform, we build a legacy of hope. May Our Lady of Częstochowa always guide and protect us!
Glory to our Lord Jesus Christ!
In the name of the Holy Trinity! Amen!