In the Angelus prayer, recited at the Apostolic Palace in Castel Gandolfo, Pope Leo XIV emphasized that “to live eternally, it is not necessary to cheat death, but to serve life,” that is, “to care for the existence of others in the time we share.”
Editorial (07/13/2025, Gaudium Press) – Pope Leo XIV’s Angelus address was delivered for the first time in Freedom Square, Castel Gandolfo, after he celebrated Mass at the nearby Church of St. Thomas of Villanova. Walking among the faithful, he arrived amid joyful cheers and outstretched arms from thousands who had congregated there since morning.
He began by referencing the Gospel question: “Master, Master, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” (cf. Luke 10:25). He noted these words express “a constant desire in our life: the desire for salvation,” meaning “an existence free from failure, evil and death.”
Pope Leo then reflected that “eternal life, which only God can give, is bestowed on us as an inheritance, from parent to child.” To receive this gift, he explained, one must do God’s will: “It is written in the Law: ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart,’ and ‘your neighbour as yourself.’ The will of God is ‘this law of life that the Father Himself was the first to practice, by loving us completely in His Son Jesus.’”
He continued: “In order to live eternally, we do not need to cheat death, but to serve life, by caring for others in this, our time together.”
“That is the supreme law that is prior to all society’s rules and gives them their meaning.”
He further urged: “In Christ, God made Himself a neighbour to each and every man and woman: therefore, each of us can and should become a neighbour to all whom we meet… we too are called to bring consolation and hope, above all to those who are discouraged and disappointed.” Closing with prayer: “Let us ask the Virgin Mary, Mother of Mercy, to help us to open our hearts to God’s will, which is always a will of saving love. In this way, we will become artisans of peace every day of our lives.”
After the Angelus, the Pope greeted local civil and military authorities, thanked the crowd for their warm reception, and invited prayers “for peace and for all those who, due to violence and war, suffer and are in need.”
Compiled by Gustavo Kralj
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