--- An initiative of the Mary of Nazareth Association March 11 – Madonna Miracolosa (Italy, 1855) - Saint Sophronius, Patriarch of Jerusalem Hail Mother of mercy, Mother of God, Mother of forgiveness  “Hail Mother of mercy, Mother of God, Mother of forgiveness, Mother of hope, Mother of grace and Mother full of holy gladness.” In these few words we find a summary of the faith of generations of men and women who, with their eyes fixed firmly on the icon of the Blessed Virgin, have sought her intercession and consolation… Let us, then, pass through the Holy Door of Mercy knowing that at our side is the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Holy Mother of God, who intercedes for us. Let us allow her to lead us to the rediscovery of the beauty of an encounter with her Son Jesus. Let us open wide the doors of our heart to the joy of forgiveness, conscious that we have been given new confidence and hope, and thus make our daily lives a humble instrument of God’s love. And with the love and affection of children, let us cry out to Our Lady as did the faithful people of God in Ephesus during the historic Council: “Holy Mother of God!” I invite you to repeat together this acclamation three times, aloud and with all your heart and with all your love: “Holy Mother of God! Holy Mother of God! Holy Mother of God!” The Pope opened the Holy Door of the Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major, on Friday, January 1, Solemnity of Mary Mother of God, and World Day of Peace. Pope Francis  Holy Mass and opening of the Holy Door- Basilica of St Mary Major. Homily, January 1, 2016 www.vatican.va ​YouTube Image www.mariedenazareth.com Let’s pray together  Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners now, and at the hour of death. Amen.