Archbishop Rino Fisichella, the Pro-Prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelization, recently delivered a powerful homily at the Mass for the Jubilee of the Missionaries of Mercy. The event marked the fourth Sunday of Lent and took place at the Basilica of Sant’Andrea della Valle in central Rome.
Fisichella drew on the parable of the Prodigal Son to emphasize the immense love of God and the importance of embracing it within ourselves. He noted that our love for God is different from our own, and we need to welcome this love to discover its depth.
The Archbishop highlighted two key points from the parable. The first son represents those who struggle with their own desires and failures, while the second son symbolizes those who react with anger and resentment towards others’ success. Fisichella encouraged us to recognize our common traits with both sons and to seek forgiveness and reconciliation.
He emphasized that the Father’s response to the Prodigal Son – “Son, you are always with me, and everything that is mine is yours” – reveals our sin. We often fail to understand the value of closeness to God and lose sight of His love.
However, Fisichella also highlighted the potential for forgiveness and reconciliation. He encouraged priests to persevere in their ministry and share their own experiences of communion with God. By doing so, they can express the Father’s love more fully.
The Archbishop emphasized that we must welcome those who are far away and drawing near, just as the Father runs to meet the Prodigal Son. This requires us to overcome our shortsightedness and open our hearts and minds.
In conclusion, Fisichella stressed that no one can remain outside the house of the Father. Through full and total reconciliation, we can rediscover our identity as sons and bring out the greatness of God’s love. The Missionaries of Mercy, who serve as special instruments of reconciliation, play a vital role in reminding everyone of the immense power of God’s love.
Source: https://www.vaticannews.va/en/vatican-city/news/2025-03/archbishop-fisichella-grace-reconciliation-immensity-god-s-love.html