VATICAN CITY, MAY 4, 2008 (Zenit.org).- Christian hope is not an illusion since in Christ, life has a firm anchor, says Benedict XVI.
The Pope affirmed this before praying the Regina Caeli today with thousands gathered in St. Peter's Square.
"Today the solemnity of the Ascension of Christ into heaven is celebrated in Italy and in various other countries," the Holy Father recalled. "After the Ascension the first disciples remain together in the cenacle around the Mother of Jesus in fervent expectation of the gift of the Holy Spirit promised by Jesus.
"On this first Sunday of May, the month of Mary, we too relive this experience, more intensely feeling Mary's spiritual presence."