Pope Leo XIV reflected on the crucifixion, focusing on Jesus’ cry from the cross as a profound act of love and trust
Newsroom (10/09/2025, Gaudium Press ) In his catechesis during the General Audience, Pope Leo XIV reflected on the crucifixion, focusing on Jesus’ cry from the cross as a profound act of love and trust. Drawing from the Gospel account, he highlighted Jesus’ words, “My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?” as a moment of raw humanity rather than despair.
“Jesus does not fade away gradually, like a light that burns out, but rather he leaves life with a cry,” the Pope explained. This cry, he noted, was not a sign of faltering faith but “the final stage of a love that is given up to the very end.” Even in the silence of God’s apparent absence, Jesus’ cry reflected trust and surrender.
The Pope described the cosmic significance of this moment, with the sky darkening and the temple veil tearing in two, symbolizing God’s presence becoming fully visible in the Crucified One. “God no longer dwells behind a veil—His face is now fully visible in the Crucified One,” he said, emphasizing that Jesus’ broken body reveals divine solidarity with human suffering.
A Pagan’s Faith and the Power of the Cry
Pope Leo pointed to the Roman centurion at the foot of the cross, a pagan who, witnessing Jesus’ death, professed faith. “This was not a fleeting profession, but one that truly touched and changed the heart,” the Pope said, underscoring the transformative power of Jesus’ sacrifice.
The pontiff stressed that crying out is a deeply human and spiritual act. “When the heart is full, it cries,” he said, noting that the Gospel elevates the cry to an act of prayer when words fail. Jesus’ final cry, he explained, was not one of resignation but of trust, directed to the Father with the belief that He listens.
“Crying out does not mean giving up,” Pope Leo affirmed. “A person cries out because they believe someone can still hear them.”
A Call to Cry Out with Trust
The Pope framed crying as an essential part of human existence, from the first breath at birth to moments of suffering, love, and longing. “Crying is saying who we are, that we do not want to fade away in silence, that we still have something to offer,” he said.
In times of trial, Jesus’ cry on the cross serves as a model for believers. “A cry is never pointless, if it is born of love,” Pope Leo urged, encouraging the faithful to reject cynicism and embrace hope. A cry directed to God, he assured, will always be heard.
Closing his address, the Pope invited all to cry out authentically in their struggles, promising that such an act of faith could become “the threshold of a new light, of a new birth.” His message resonated as a call to transform pain into prayer and despair into hope, echoing his broader appeal for peace and compassion in a fractured world.
Pope Urges Prayers for Children in War-Torn Regions
Pope Leo XIV renewed his heartfelt appeal for global prayers and humanitarian efforts to support children suffering in war-torn regions during his Wednesday General Audience. Addressing pilgrims gathered in St. Peter’s Square, the pontiff emphasized the urgent need for compassion and action in places like Ukraine, Gaza, and other conflict zones.
“Remember in your prayers and humanitarian projects the children of Ukraine, Gaza, and other regions of the world afflicted by war,” Pope Leo urged, his voice carrying a tone of solemn resolve.
In a special message to Polish pilgrims, the Pope commemorated the National Day of Polish Victims of War, reflecting on the immense suffering endured by children during World War II and their role in Poland’s post-war reconstruction. “I entrust you and the children who are suffering today to the protection of Mary, Queen of Peace,” he said, invoking the Blessed Virgin as a beacon of hope.
Turning to Arabic-speaking faithful, Pope Leo extended his prayers to those enduring turmoil in the Middle East. “I invite you to transform your cry in moments of trial and tribulation into a trusting prayer, because God always listens to his children and responds at the moment he deems best for us,” he said, concluding with a blessing: “May the Lord bless you all and always protect you from every evil!”
- Raju Hasmukh with files from Vatican News
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