Urbi et Orbi: Happy Easter

Crowds gather in St. Peter's Square for the 'Urbi et Orbi' blessing.
(Image, Agence France Presse)

 
To Plainfield and to the world: Happy Easter.

Pope Francis delivered his first 'Urbi et Orbi' blessing at noon local time in St. Peter's Square (see the full text here).

The blessing takes its name from the form of proclamations issued in the name of the Roman Emperors in late antiquity: 'Urbi et orbi' (literally, 'to the city [Rome] and to the world').

Francis recalls the centrality of the Church's proclamation that Christ has died and is risen. He also prays for concerns facing the world at large today, enumerating several.

Traditionally, those present for the blessing (and now, thanks to the wonders of radio and TV, those who hear it worldwide) are granted an indulgence remitting all venial sins.

Ah, when life was so simple and one could tell a venial sin from a mortal sin!

In any event, a Happy Easter to all, and a sense of renewal and hope for Plainfield and the world as Spring finally takes hold.

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-- Dan Damon [follow]

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