Pope Leo XIV urges faithful to embrace love over legalism during Angelus, stressing the fulfillment of the Law through compassion.
Newsroom (17/02/2026 Gaudium Press ) On Sunday, February 15, 2026, Pope Leo XIV appeared before a vast crowd in St. Peter’s Square for the customary Angelus prayer, offering a profound meditation on the Gospel of Matthew (Mt 5:17–37). Speaking beneath the crisp winter sky, he reflected on Jesus’ “Sermon on the Mount,” inviting Christians to discover the deeper meaning of the Law through the transformative power of love.
“The Law,” Pope Leo said, “is fulfilled precisely by love, which brings its profound meaning and ultimate purpose to completion.” Rather than interpreting God’s commandments as a checklist for personal righteousness, he urged the faithful to regard them as invitations into relationship—first with God, then with one another.
Beyond Legalism: The Call of the Kingdom
In his remarks, the Pope revisited Jesus’ contrast between “You have heard it said” and “But I say to you,” noting that these words marked a turning point in spiritual understanding. The holiness of the new covenant, he explained, lies not in compliance with ritual detail but in a heart transformed by mercy and compassion.
He cited the apostle Paul’s view of the Law as a “pedagogue” leading to Christ (Gal 3:23–25), saying that with Jesus’ coming, divine justice now takes flesh in human tenderness. True righteousness, the Pope emphasized, “is not limited to observing the commandments, but opens us to love and compels us to love.”
The Law of Love in Everyday Life
Drawing from concrete examples in the Gospel, Pope Leo illustrated how moral fulfillment extends far beyond literal observance. Avoiding physical violence does not suffice if one wounds others with words. Fidelity in marriage, he noted, must also mean mutual care, listening, and shared purpose.
“The Gospel offers us this valuable teaching,” he continued. “Minimal righteousness is not enough; great love is needed.” His tone was pastoral yet challenging—a summons to interior conversion rather than mere conformity.
The Pope concluded his reflection by invoking the Virgin Mary, whom he called “the One who fulfills the Law and the plan of salvation.” He prayed that she might help all believers “understand better the Kingdom of God and live out its call for righteousness.”
Prayers for Madagascar and New Year Greetings
Following the Angelus, Pope Leo turned his attention to current world concerns. Expressing heartfelt solidarity with the people of Madagascar—recently struck by two cyclones that brought flooding and landslides—he prayed for the victims, their families, and those suffering losses.
He also extended festive greetings to millions in East Asia and beyond celebrating the Lunar New Year, offering a message of peace, unity, and shared hope: “May this joyful celebration strengthen family ties and friendships, bring peace to homes and society, and provide an opportunity to build peace and prosperity for all.”
Greeting the Global Church
As is his custom, Pope Leo offered greetings to pilgrims and parish groups gathered in Rome from across the world. He welcomed delegations of students and teachers from England, Portugal, Spain, and Germany, along with participants in Italy’s national conference of the Catholic Students Movement.
The Pope also encouraged young people preparing for Confirmation and students of various Catholic schools, invoking God’s blessing on their faith journey. Concluding with his characteristic warmth, he wished everyone present “a happy Sunday.”
- Raju Hasmukh with files from Vatican News
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