In a message centered on unity, forgiveness, and the enduring witness of the Church, the pontiff reflected on the legacy of the apostles in a divided world.
Newsroom, June 29, 2025, Gaudium Press – Pope Leo XIV addressed thousands of pilgrims gathered in Saint Peter’s Square for the Angelus on the Solemnity of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul, the patron saints of Rome. In a message centered on unity, forgiveness, and the enduring witness of the Church, the pontiff reflected on the legacy of the apostles and the call to communion in a divided world.
A Call for Unity Through Forgiveness
Pope Leo XIV began by emphasizing the foundational role of Saints Peter and Paul in the Church of Rome, noting that its birth was “made fruitful by the outpouring of their blood and that of many martyrs.” He highlighted the contemporary relevance of their sacrifice, pointing to an “ecumenism of blood” that unites Christian communities worldwide, even those not in full communion. “I would like to confirm on this solemn feast that my episcopal ministry is at the service of unity,” he said, pledging the Church of Rome’s commitment to fostering communion among all Churches.
Drawing on the imagery of Jesus as the “rock rejected by the builders” and the cornerstone, the Pope connected the apostles’ witness to the challenges faced by Christians today. He noted that the Papal Basilicas of Saint Peter and Saint Paul, located “Outside the Walls,” symbolize the reversal of worldly values through the Beatitudes. “Those who follow Jesus must tread the path of poverty of spirit, meekness, mercy, and peace-making, often met with opposition and even persecution,” he said, encouraging believers to embrace ongoing conversion.
The Pope underscored the transformative power of forgiveness, citing the New Testament’s candid portrayal of the apostles’ flaws and their restoration through Christ’s mercy. “Jesus never calls just one time,” he said, framing the upcoming Jubilee as a reminder of this hope. He urged families and communities to foster unity through forgiveness and mutual trust, declaring, “If Jesus can trust us, we can certainly trust one another in his name.”
Prayers for Central African Republic and Gratitude for Rome
Following the Angelus, Pope Leo XIV offered condolences to the Barthélémy Boganda High School community in Bangui, Central African Republic, where a tragic accident claimed numerous lives and injured students. “May the Lord comfort the families and the entire community,” he said.
The Pope extended warm greetings to the faithful of Rome, parish priests, and clergy, expressing gratitude for their service on the feast of their patron saints. He also acknowledged the Peter’s Pence collection, a global initiative supporting the Pope’s apostolic ministry, thanking donors for their generosity as he takes his “first steps as the Successor of Peter.”
Pope Leo XIV blessed participants in the “Quo Vadis?” event, which celebrates the legacy of Saints Peter and Paul in Rome. He thanked organizers for promoting the city’s patron saints and greeted pilgrims from Ukraine, Mexico, Croatia, Poland, the United States, Venezuela, Brazil, Indonesia, and Eritrean communities in Europe, as well as various Italian groups.
The Pope also praised the Pro Loco of Rome and artists responsible for the floral displays adorning Via della Conciliazione and Piazza Pio XII, calling them a beautiful tribute to the feast. He acknowledged the presence of Metropolitan Archbishops who received the Pallium, a symbol of their authority and communion with the Holy See.
Raju Hasmukh with files from Vatican.va
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