Pope Benedict's Angelus Message

After the canonization Mass, Pope Benedict XVI greeted -- in their languages -- the many groups of pilgrims who had come from all over the world. The pilgrims had stood in torrential rain for more than four hours during the canonization ceremonies.

"Dear brothers and sisters:

At the end of this celebration, I wish to extend some particular greetings to the numerous pilgrims present. I thank you for your patience! Water is a great good, and we are therefore also thankful for the rain!

(in French)

I greet you, dear pilgrims from the different countries where the Religious of the Assumption are present, for having come to the canonization of Marie Eugenie Milleret. Following the example of our new saint, you will find in Mary a sure guide, because she allowed herself to be taken over by love, humbly. I pray that, with St. Marie Eugenie, you will be clothed in Christ and be renewed, without ceasing, in your courage and hope.

(in English)

I extend cordial greetings to all the English-speaking pilgrims here today on this Feast of the Most Holy Trinity, especially those who have come to Rome in such great numbers from Malta, Ireland and Great Britain to be present at today's Canonization. May these new Saints accompany you with their prayers and inspire you by the example of their holy lives. May God bless you all!

(in German)

I greet cordially the pilgrims and visitors from German-speaking countries. With the whole Church, we wish to praise the grandeur of the Most Holy Trinity and recognize in the new saints, George Preca, Simon of Lipnica, Charles of St. Andrew Houben and Marie Eugenie of Jesus Milleret the great work of grace, which makes of men participants in the glory of God. To all of you, dear brothers and sisters, I wish a happy stay here in Rome.

(in Spanish)

I extend cordial greetings to the pilgrims from Spain and Latin America, especially the numerous faithful of Mexico and members of the group Assumption Together who have come to participate in the canonization of Mother Marie Eugenie of Jesus. May the example of our new saint, foundress of the Religious of the Assumption, help you focus your spiritual life in Christ and in the mystery of the Incarnation, and move you to make a firm and courageous apostolic commitment, transmitting Gospel values to the culture of today, particularly through the education of youth.

(in Dutch)

I greet cordially the official delegation and pilgrims who have come from the Low Countries for the canonization of the Passionist priest Charles of St. Andrew Houben, native of Munstergeleen. Through his intercession may the people of God in the Low Countries walk always in faith, in hope, and in charity.

(in Maltese)

Dearest brothers and sisters in Christ from Malta and Gozo, peace be with you! St. George Preca is the first son canonized from your beloved native land. He is your second father in the faith, after the apostle St. Paul. May he intercede for you, that you may always be friends of the Gospel. St. George Preca, pray for us!

(in Polish)

I greet the pilgrims from Poland. St. Simon of Lipniz, following the example of Mary, served the poorest of our brethren. Through his intercession, we pray for those who have consecrated their lives to the service of the sick, the suffering, and the abandoned. May God bless you all.

(in Italian)

I greet the Italian-speaking pilgrims, and in particular the National Association of Military Healthcare, whose motto is: Arma pietati cedant (Arms give way to pity). May this become real throughout the world.

Finally, my thoughts go to the Church of Bologna, which celebrates the 750th anniversary of the act by which the Senate of that city abolished slavery in its territory. May this act give rise to a renewed commitment to abolish the new forms of slavery that still afflict humankind."