Today, we celebrate the Memorial of Saint John XXIII. Angelo Giuseppe Roncalli (25 November 1881 - 3 June 1963) was one of thirteen children born to a family of sharecroppers who lived in a village in Lombardy (Italy). He was ordained to the priesthood on 10 August 1904 and served in a number of posts, as Apostolic Nuncio in France and as an Apostolic Delegate to Bulgaria, Greece and Turkey.
After Jesus had revealed himself to his disciples and eaten breakfast with them, he said to Simon Peter, 'Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?' (Jn 21:15) This question, which appears in today's gospel passage, was asked of Angelo Roncalli on numerous occasions: by his mother and by his God. Each time, he said yes, you know that I love you (Jn 21:17).
Pope Pius XII created Roncalli a Cardinal on 12 January 1953, and he was elected as Supreme Pontiff on 28 October 1958. Pope John XXIII surprised those who expected him to be a caretaker Pope by calling the historic Second Vatican Council (1962–1965), the first session opening on 11 October 1962. As a result of his courage and vision, the Church has continued to experience a major renewal ever since.
Each time we are asked the question: Do you love me?, and we answer like Peter did, we too open doors and windows, we too are renewed, and we too have another chance to discover the great love and mercy of our God.
Have a great day.
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