(ANSA) - VATICAN CITY, MARCH 25 - "In this particular historical moment, marked by many shadows, by situations that degrade humanity, by a lack of trust and prospects for the future, the figure of Dante, prophet of hope and witness of human desire for happiness, can still give us words and examples that give impetus to our journey. It can help us to advance with serenity and courage in the pilgrimage of life and faith that we are all called to make ".
These are the words with which Pope Francis's Apostolic Letter "Candor lucis aeternae" ends on the seventh centenary of Dante Alighieri's death.
The Pope signs and publishes "Splendor of the Eternal Light" on the solemnity of the Annunciation, the day "on which the Liturgy celebrates this ineffable Mystery" which "is also particularly significant for the historical and literary story of the Supreme Poet Dante Alighieri, prophet of hope and witness of the thirst for infinity inherent in the heart of man ".
On this occasion, therefore, "I too would like to join the numerous corodi those who want to honor his memory on the seventh centenary of his death", Francis writes at the beginning of the text, divided into an introduction and nine chapters.
"Therefore, in this circumstance, the voice of the Church cannot be lacking - notes the Pontiff - which is associated with the unanimous commemoration of the man and the poet Dante Alighieri. Much better than many others, he was able to express of the mystery of God and love ".
(HANDLE).