The canticle of hope

Mary and the Magnificat: The Song of Christian Hope

In the *angelus* prayer on August 15, 2022, Pope Francis emphasized that the *Magnificat* is a song of praise that can be defined as “the song of hope.” In it, the Virgin Mary, with joy and gratitude, exults over the wonders worked by God in her life and contemplates the divine work in the history of the people. Her prayer overflows with immense grateful prayer, inspired by the Holy Spirit.Mary does not worship a distant or imaginary god but rather the Holy One of Israel, Emmanuel, the God who is Infinite Love. Therefore, she praises the God of hope, who chose her and made his most holy dwelling within her. She acknowledges God’s generosity and, unlike the lazy servant, does not hide the gifts received but overflows with hope and fidelity, joy and faith. In truth, Mary’s joy is a reflection of God Himself, the most precious gift she shares, for everything is for the glory of God.

Mary Remembers the Wonders of God: Prophetic Testimony

In her song, Mary recalls the wonders worked by God throughout the history of salvation. She especially thanks Him for the Incarnation of Christ, the “Son of Mary,” as her fellow countrymen would call Him. In remembering the promise made to Abraham and his descendants, Mary recognizes its fulfillment in her life with the coming of Christ.The praise of Mary is a prophetic testimony that true hope does not fail. God never deceives those who trust in His will. The promise of a future of hope is not from the past but belongs to the future, guided by the divine hand. Thus, Mary sang her song of hope, and the pilgrims of hope must follow her example during this jubilee year.P. João Paulo Domingues Quelhas Capelão do Santuário de Fátima, PortugalThe Apostolic Exhortation *Marialis Cultus* by Paul VI analyzes in depth the Magnificat of Mary, presenting it as a model of Marian prayer and Christian hope.To deepen your studies, explore Mariology, Marian Theology, Marian Apparitions, and the Postgraduate Program in Mariology at the Instituto Locus Mariologicus.