VATICAN - The Pope prays at the feet of the statue of Immaculate Mary in piazza di Spagna: “Immaculate Mary help us to build a world where human life is loved and protected, all form of violence is banned, peace is tenaciously sought after by all”

Vatican City(Agenzia Fides) - In the afternoon of 8 December, feast of the Immaculate Conception, Pope John Paul II made his now traditional visit to Piazza di Spagna (for the 27th time) to pay homage to the statue of Immaculate Mary which stands in front of the building of “Propaganda Fide”. During a Liturgy of the Word the Pope read out the following prayer:
“Immaculate Mary! Once again we are here to honour you at the foot of this column from where you lovingly watch over Rome and the whole world since, one hundred an fifty years ago, blessed Pius IX proclaimed as a truth of the Catholic faith, your preservation from all stain of sin, in view of the death and resurrection of your Son Jesus Christ!.
Immaculate Mary! Your total spiritual beauty is for us a living source of trust and hope. Having you as our mother, Most Holy Virgin, reassures us on the path of life like a pledge of eternal salvation. So we turn to you in confidence. Help us to build a world where human life is loved and protected, all form of violence is banned, peace is tenaciously sought after by all.
Immaculate Mary! In this Year of the Eucharist help us to celebrate and adore with renewed faith and ardent love the holy mystery of the Body and Blood of Christ. At your school, O Woman of the Eucharist, teach us to commemorate the marvellous works which God never ceases to work in human hearts. With maternal care Virgin Mary, guide our steps on the paths of good always. Amen!” (S.L.) (Agenzia Fides 9/12/2004 - Righe 19; Parole 254)