The New Year began in the same way as every day of the old year began. In the morning Holy Mass, then breakfast. And, then the Mass in the basilica. And, the message for the New Year, which at the same time was a message for the World Day of Peace. It was a very joyful day for the Holy Father – says the Archbishop – because not only is the eighth day of the octave of Christmas, but also a Marian feast, the solemnity of the Holy Mother of God. For him, every Marian feast was a source of additional joy. And, after the New Year, apparently, one already had the impression that the Holy Father is a bit sorry that this festive time is ending. When he passed by the nativity scene, he often repeated: “It will soon be gone” – recalls the Archbishop. Until January 6, we were caroling, so there were still a few more days. Well, and the Christmas tree stood in the house until February 2nd. And, besides, as the Holy Father has often said, “In the hearts of Christians, every day is Christmas”. In his heart, every day was Christmas for sure.
With the consent of Archbishop Mieczysław Mokrzycki – “Place for everyone”
Znak Publishing House, Kraków 2013.
