Pope Leo XIV: Embrace Christ’s resurrection for true fraternity amid wars and division. Love as He loved
Newsroom (12/11/2025 Gaudium Press ) In his latest catechesis for the Jubilee 2025, Pope Leo XIV called on believers to embrace “paschal spirituality” rooted in Christ’s resurrection, emphasizing it as a vital force for building authentic fraternity in a world plagued by wars, social tensions, and hatred.
Addressing pilgrims in St. Peter’s Square, the pontiff highlighted Jesus’ commandment, “Love one another as I have loved you” (Jn 15:12), as the foundation for overcoming selfishness and division. “To believe in the death and resurrection of Christ… imbues life with hope and encourages us to invest in goodness,” he said.
Pope Leo XIV stressed that true fraternity extends beyond family ties, drawing inspiration from St. Francis of Assisi’s inclusive greeting of “omnes fratres” – all brothers and sisters. He echoed Pope Francis’ encyclical Fratelli tutti, noting its enduring relevance in promoting universal dignity, dialogue, and salvation.
“Fraternity is not a beautiful but impossible dream,” the Holy Father asserted, warning against loneliness and narcissism that reduce others to mere utilities. Instead, genuine relationships – supporting one another in hardship, weeping and rejoicing together – mirror Christ’s self-giving love, fulfilled in his passion, death, and resurrection.
The pope linked this to contemporary challenges: “Many conflicts, many wars all over the world… would seem to prove the opposite.” Yet, drawing strength from the Risen Christ frees humanity from enmity’s “poison,” restoring our vocation as children of one Father.
In special greetings, Pope Leo XIV welcomed English-speaking pilgrims from nations including England, Ireland, Finland, Australia, China, Japan, and the United States. Observing November’s focus on holy souls, he prayed for grace to live Jesus’ love commandment, leading to everlasting life.
A summary of his words underscored: Relationships thrive when genuine, not formal; St. Francis exemplified universal welcome; God’s love is for all, commanding imitation of Christ’s generosity to build unity and trust.
The audience, part of the “Jesus Christ Our Hope” series, continues preparations for the 2025 Jubilee, urging renewed hope through Easter’s transformative power.
- Raju Hasmukh with files from Vatican.va
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