|
During the Regina Caeli in St. Peter's Square, Pope Leo XIV gave a profound reflection on the Christian message of welcome and hope, intertwining it with various critical present issues, including press freedom, minors' protection, and the need for peace. Commenting on the Sunday Gospel, the Pope emphasized that Jesus' words about the "Father's house" convey a universal promise: there is enough room in God for everyone. This message challenges the logic of the world, which is frequently characterized by exclusivity and rivalry. Christ emphasized that in the "new world" he has announced, welcome replaces exclusion and thankfulness replaces rivalry. It is there that each individual can finally uncover their own worth, without having to earn it. Along with his spiritual reflection, the Pope drew attention to World Press Freedom Day, highlighting how this fundamental right is still violated today, both openly and discreetly. His thoughts moved to the innumerable journalists and reporters who have died in conflicts and violent situations, demonstrating the incredibly high cost of freedom of expression. An important passage was also devoted to the Day of Children Victims of Violence, Exploitation, and Indifference, an occasion on which the Pope expressed his gratitude to the Meter Association for its thirty-year dedication to the defense of minors. This effort involves the ecclesial and civil communities, advocating prevention and concrete assistance to victims. The Pope then recalled the beginning of the month of May, which is usually dedicated to Mary, and invited the faithful to rediscover the Rosary prayer as a form of communion. He recalled the image of the disciples gathered in the Upper Room after the Ascension, waiting for the Holy Spirit, with Mary at the focus of their devotion. Finally, the Pope entrusted his intentions to the faithful, asking for prayers for Church unity and global peace. The essence of his message is encapsulated in this invitation: to establish the open and inclusive world that the Gospel promises through love and fraternity, starting today.
|