(ANS – Turin) – Sunday 27 October, in a Marian atmosphere of communion and joy, the Mary Help of Christians Association (ADMA) had its 23rd Marian Day, developing the spirit and content of the Marian Day in Rome with Pope Francis during the Year of Faith on 13 October last.

In the presence of some 300 people, Fr Roberto Carelli offered a re-interpretation of the Papal catechesis, emphasising Mary's maternal role in resolving matters that block our journey of faith and our relationships, especially in family life.

Fr Pierluigi Cameroni, the ADMA Spiritual Animator, then presented the testimony of the newest Salesian Family Martyr, Blessed Stephen Sándor, noting especially the profound relationships he had with his family – his parents and brothers.

A number of other testimonies followed: a married couple offered their impressions on the pilgrimage they had made to Rome; another couple spoke of the monthly gathering of families in fellowship and prayer; and then a girl from the Shalom Community shared her experience of evangelisation in parish missions.

Fr Franco Lotto, the Rector of the Basilica of Mary help of Christians, presided  at the solemn Mass in the afternoon, following the Rosary. In his homily he stressed the importance of imitating Mary in a humility which recognises our insignificance in the sight of God's greatness, and in her charity which is never judgemental, but open to service and acceptance.

During the celebration, 32 individuals joined the Association. They came from Valdocco, which is the ADMA primary group, and from Arese, Ivrea, Nave and the Shalom Community at Palazzolo Sull'Oglio.

Published 30/10/2013