The Prelate Pawel Ptasznik, who was documenting the homilies of John Paul II, has no doubt that during Advent the Pope was preparing in a special way for December 8th. That was when he went to the Spanish square- he says- where he always gave a speech. And, I always sensed that he made sure that this speech was particularly beautiful. To be theological, but also literary beautiful. This was probably due to his Marian devotion, an extraordinary devotion to Our Lady. In Advent, the feast of the Immaculate Conception was an excellent opportunity to recall Mary's role in the work of salvation. To show Her spiritual beauty. To thank Her.
Archbishop Mokrzycki mentions that for them, every Saturday Mass of Advent was a roraty Mass. At the altar there was a candle with a white ribbon. This candle, called the roratka, symbolizes the Mother of God, explains the Archbishop. For the roraty is one of the signs of Her special presence in the Advent. And this, in turn, had of great importance to the Holy Father. He had his secrets with Mary. He had a special devotion to Her. I am convinced that he had conversations with Her. That is, She spoke to him. Therefore, every Marian feast was a big event for him. And, very emotional. At the Marian feast he was very joyful. Moreover, he himself spoke of this joy many times. He has repeatedly emphasized that Advent is a deeply Marian time.
With the consent of Archbishop Mieczysław Mokrzycki – "Place for everyone"
Znak Publishing House, Kraków 2013.
