Speaker:

Dear brothers and sisters: We now begin a new series of catecheses for the Holy Year on the Jubilee theme of “Jesus Christ our Hope.” Today we reflect on the Gospel accounts of Jesus’ genealogy, which remind us that his life and identity belong to a greater history that embraces his ancestry, his family and the faith of the entire people of Israel. The presence of four Gentile women in Matthew’s genealogy reminds us that Jesus was ultimately sent to be the Saviour of all peoples. The birth of Jesus from the Virgin Mary is itself a sign of a new beginning for our human family. As Christmas approaches, let us give thanks for our own genealogy, and renew our commitment to embody the gifts of reconciliation, peace and hope which our Lord brought into this world by his Incarnation.

Santo Padre:

Saluto i pellegrini di lingua inglese, specialmente quelli provenienti da Malta. A ciascuno di voi e alle vostre famiglie, giunga l’augurio di un fecondo cammino di Avvento, per poter celebrare, a Natale, la venuta di Gesù, il Salvatore.

Speaker:

I extend a warm welcome to the English-speaking pilgrims and visitors, especially those coming from Malta. I pray that each of you, and your families, may experience a blessed Advent in preparation for the coming of Jesus our Saviour at Christmas.