Pope Leo XIV urges courage and dialogue in a solemn homily
On Sunday morning, Pope Leo XIV conducted a private Mass at the tomb of St Peter in the Vatican Grottoes, after which he prayed in silence at the tombs of his predecessors. In his homily, he spoke about the Good Shepherd, the courage of faith, and the importance of listening.
On Sunday morning, Pope Leo XIV visited the Vatican Grottoes, where he celebrated a private Mass near the tomb of Saint Peter. After the liturgy, he spent time in silent prayer at the tombs of previous popes.
Leo XIV: Courage! Do not be afraid!
In the homily, which he first delivered in English and then in Italian, the Holy Father referred to the Gospel of the day, reflecting on the parable of the Good Shepherd. He also spoke about the universal call to proclaim the Gospel and urged the faithful to have courage: Courage! Do not be afraid!
The Pope admitted that the mission of preaching may involve sacrifice, but the key is the ability to listen – to both God and others. Listening allows us to engage in true dialogue, he emphasised, calling it the foundation of "building bridges."
The Holy Father noted that listening should not lead to judgement or shutting oneself off from others. – We cannot close doors, as if we possess the whole truth and others have nothing to offer – the Pope said.
This humble attitude should lead to better discernment of where God is calling us.
A clear declaration from the new Pope on Ukraine
Earlier, Pope Leo XIV debuted on the balcony of St Peter's Basilica, leading the Regina Coeli prayer. He also spoke out, unequivocally addressing the war in Ukraine. - I appeal to the great leaders of the world. No more war - the new pope said. He also mentioned the "beloved Ukrainian people."
