Pope Francis Archives - ZENIT - English https://zenit.org/category/pope-francis/ The World Seen From Rome Fri, 24 Jan 2025 14:14:16 +0000 es hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.1 https://zenit.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/8049a698-cropped-dc1b6d35-favicon_1.png Pope Francis Archives - ZENIT - English https://zenit.org/category/pope-francis/ 32 32 Pope Francis sends cardinal to visit Syrian Catholics https://zenit.org/2025/01/23/pope-francis-sends-cardinal-to-visit-syrian-catholics/ Thu, 23 Jan 2025 14:10:23 +0000 https://zenit.org/?p=218380 A Mission of Unity: Cardinal Gugerotti’s Journey to Syria as Pope Francis’ Envoy

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(ZENIT News / Rome, 01.23.2025).- Pope Francis has entrusted Cardinal Claudio Gugerotti, Prefect of the Dicastery for the Eastern Churches, with a mission to Syria, a nation still grappling with the aftershocks of war and socioeconomic collapse. This visit, spanning January 24–29, serves as a tangible expression of the Pope’s unwavering commitment to the Syrian people and his desire to foster unity among Christians in the region.

A Nation in Turmoil, A Church of Resilience

Syria finds itself in a precarious state. Over a decade of conflict has left scars on its land, economy, and people, leading to widespread poverty and a mass exodus of citizens. Despite these challenges, Syria’s Christian communities—rooted in ancient traditions—continue to serve as steadfast witnesses to faith and cultural richness.

Pope Francis, in his message accompanying this mission, expressed his deep hope for the reconstruction of a peaceful and prosperous Syria. He called for the removal of sanctions that have exacerbated the nation’s economic struggles and urged the drafting of a new constitution that upholds freedom, human dignity, and inclusivity.

Cardinal Gugerotti’s Itinerary: A Symbolic Journey

Accompanied by Archbishop Michel Jalakh and Father Emanuel Sabadakh, Cardinal Gugerotti’s visit will be rich with spiritual and ecumenical significance. His itinerary includes stops in Damascus, Aleppo, and Homs, where he will engage with Catholic bishops, clergy, religious, and lay faithful.

In each city, he will visit the respective cathedrals of the Greek Melkite, Maronite, Chaldean, Syrian, Armenian, and Latin Catholic communities, joining in prayer and extending Pope Francis’ blessings. These moments will highlight the diversity and unity of Syria’s Catholic faithful, who remain resilient in their commitment to Christ despite ongoing hardships.

The Cardinal will also meet with leaders of local charitable organizations, whose efforts have been vital in providing relief to struggling communities. This underscores the Catholic Church’s active role in promoting not just spiritual healing, but also tangible support for those in need.

Building Bridges Across Christian Traditions

A hallmark of the mission will be Cardinal Gugerotti’s meetings with leaders of the Orthodox Churches in Syria. He is scheduled to meet with His Holiness Mor Ignatius Aphrem II, Patriarch of the Syriac Orthodox Church, and His Beatitude John X, Greek Orthodox Patriarch of Antioch, among others.

In these encounters, the Cardinal will carry Pope Francis’ message that Christian unity is an “unshakable imperative” in today’s fractured world. This outreach reflects the Pope’s vision of ecumenism as a cornerstone for peace and reconciliation, particularly in a region where division has long threatened to undermine collective progress.

A Celebration of Faith and History

On January 25, the Feast of the Conversion of Saint Paul, Cardinal Gugerotti will preside over a Eucharistic celebration at the Memorial of Saint Paul in Damascus.

The Cardinal will also venerate the relics of the Martyrs of Damascus, visiting both the Latin church and the Maronite cathedral in Bab Touma. These acts of devotion highlight the enduring witness of Syrian Christians who, across centuries, have remained steadfast in their faith despite persecution and adversity.

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Trump new president: a telegram from the pope, an end to gender ideology and a Catholic priest at the ceremony https://zenit.org/2025/01/21/trump-new-president-a-telegram-from-the-pope-an-end-to-gender-ideology-and-a-catholic-priest-at-the-ceremony/ Wed, 22 Jan 2025 03:27:19 +0000 https://zenit.org/?p=218370 Trump’s inaugural address reflected his commitment to reshaping the nation’s policies, particularly in the realm of social and cultural issues. Declaring an end to “government-imposed gender ideology,”

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(ZENIT News / Washington, 01.21.2025).- In a ceremony steeped in tradition yet marked by contemporary ideological divides, the 47th President of the United States, Donald Trump, was inaugurated for his second term. Among the spiritual voices offering blessings that day was an participant: Father Frank Mann, a catholic priest from the Diocese of Brooklyn.

Clad in a red and gold stole, Father Mann described the event as a “pivotal moment in history.” His presence on the stage underscored a unique bond that had formed years earlier—an improbable friendship with Trump that began with an act of quiet compassion.

A Friendship

Father Mann first crossed paths with the Trump family in an unexpected way. While visiting a cemetery in Queens, New York, he noticed the neglected state of the Trump family burial site and began tending to it. His thoughtful gesture caught the attention of Trump, leading to a personal meeting in 2020.

The priest’s simple act of care sparked a relationship characterized by mutual respect. Trump invited Father Mann to his New Jersey summer residence in 2022 and later welcomed him back for dinner at his Bedminster golf club. Their friendship deepened as the priest blessed Ivana Trump’s grave and offered counsel on engaging Catholic voters, a demographic that proved pivotal in Trump’s successful re-election campaign.

Faith and Symbolism at the Core of the Inauguration

The inauguration was a mosaic of religious, cultural, and historical references. Trump began the day with a service at St. John’s Episcopal Church, a tradition among U.S. presidents since James Madison. The ceremony itself featured blessings from a diverse array of faith leaders, including Cardinal Timothy Dolan, whose impassioned prayer echoed through the Capitol Rotunda.

Trump’s oath of office was taken with two Bibles: his childhood Revised Standard Version gifted by his mother and the historic Lincoln Bible, used by Abraham Lincoln during his first inauguration. This symbolic gesture linked Trump to pivotal moments in American history, reaffirming themes of continuity and national identity.

A message against gender ideology

Trump’s inaugural address reflected his commitment to reshaping the nation’s policies, particularly in the realm of social and cultural issues. Declaring an end to “government-imposed gender ideology,” he announced a directive to recognize only two biological sexes, a policy aimed at restoring what he described as “biological truth.” The order, dubbed “Defending Women from Gender Extremism,” was met with both acclaim.

The silent influence of a priest and a message from the Pope

Father Mann’s participation in the inauguration was more than ceremonial. As a spiritual advisor and advocate for unity, his role underscored the enduring influence of faith in American public life.

Reflecting on his friendship with the president, Father Mann remarked, “He’s a regular guy with a great sense of humor. He asked what he could do for me, and I told him I didn’t need anything.” This simplicity and authenticity resonated with Trump, who publicly supported Father Mann’s children’s book, «The Wounded Butterfly», on his social media platform.

Pope Francis, in a telegram to Trump, expressed hope that his leadership would foster a more just and inclusive society, free from hate and discrimination. The pontiff’s message offered a counterpoint to the polarized political climate, emphasizing unity and compassion.

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Pope Francis yes, Church no: survey reveals that the Pope is the most trusted person in Italy https://zenit.org/2025/01/21/pope-francis-yes-church-no-survey-reveals-that-the-pope-is-the-most-trusted-person-in-italy/ Wed, 22 Jan 2025 03:22:28 +0000 https://zenit.org/?p=218366 Two-thirds of Italians identify Pope Francis' commitment to peace and fraternity as defining features of his pontificate. His emphasis on aiding the marginalized and promoting Gospel values resonates with 60% of respondents. Additionally, his approach to communication, which combines -according to the study- clarity with compassion, has earned him widespread admiration.

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(ZENIT News / Rome, 01.21.2025).- Pope Francis stands as the figure of highest trust among Italians, with 76% expressing confidence in his leadership. This trust extends far beyond religious practice. These insights come from a recent study by the Demopolis Institute, which surveyed over 3,000 Italians to explore public sentiment surrounding the Jubilee and the broader challenges facing the Catholic Church.

Hope in Crisis: A Defining Theme for 2025

The Jubilee’s central theme, «hope,» resonates deeply in a world where 75% of Italians believe hope is in crisis. Rather than focusing solely on spiritual renewal, many view the Holy Year as a platform to address urgent societal issues. A significant 70% hope the Jubilee will amplify efforts toward peace in war-torn regions, while a majority expect the Church to strengthen its advocacy against poverty, hunger, and inequality—hallmarks of Pope Francis’ papacy.

Two-thirds of Italians identify Pope Francis’ commitment to peace and fraternity as defining features of his pontificate. His emphasis on aiding the marginalized and promoting Gospel values resonates with 60% of respondents. Additionally, his approach to communication, which combines -according to the study- clarity with compassion, has earned him widespread admiration.

Notably, over 40% highlight his focus on young people and his vision of an inclusive Church attuned to the modern world. His environmental advocacy, exemplified by his encyclical «Laudato Si», is also seen as a signature aspect of his leadership.

Challenges Facing the Church

While Pope Francis enjoys high levels of trust, confidence in the Church as an institution lags at 45%. This gap reflects broader societal trends, including declining religious participation. Although 72% of Italians identify as Catholic, only one in six regularly attends Mass.

Key challenges identified by the public include reconciling faith with modern realities, addressing sexual abuse scandals, and engaging younger generations. Additionally, many see the need for the Church to maintain relevance in discussions about peace and justice while navigating a decline in vocations.

Calls for Renewal and Creativity

As the Jubilee offers a moment of reflection, many Italians see it as an opportunity for the Church to evolve. A majority, 57%, advocate for a more creative expression of faith to attract younger generations. Nearly 40% call for greater involvement of laypeople and women, while others suggest leveraging technology and social media to strengthen connections within the faith community.

Interestingly, a smaller but vocal segment—around 20%—emphasizes the importance of defending tradition as a means of revitalizing the Church. This tension between innovation and tradition underscores the complexity of the Church’s path forward.

Pope Francis’ ability to address real-world concerns has made him a figure of trust not just among Catholics, but across the Italian population. As Demopolis director Pietro Vento observed, “Italians value the Pope’s alignment with the genuine needs of families and his ability to communicate with clarity and authenticity.”

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A woman to rule the Vatican: Pope Francis reveals in interview who she is https://zenit.org/2025/01/20/a-woman-to-rule-the-vatican-pope-francis-reveals-in-interview-who-she-is/ Mon, 20 Jan 2025 12:36:20 +0000 https://zenit.org/?p=218351 The Pope celebrated the increasing involvement of women in Vatican leadership, citing Sister Simona Brambilla’s recent appointment as Prefect of the Dicastery for Consecrated Life. “Women manage better than we do,” he quipped, acknowledging the transformative role they play within the Church.

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(ZENIT News / Rome, 01.20.2025).- On January 19, 2025, Pope Francis captivated audiences in an in-depth interview with Italian journalist Fabio Fazio on “Che tempo che fa”. This marked his third appearance on the program, following previous interviews in 2022 and 2024. In just under an hour, the Pope traversed a spectrum of critical issues, from global politics to personal anecdotes, offering a blend of humor, wisdom, and profound insight.

The occasion also served as the launchpad for his autobiography, Spera («Hope»), a heartfelt collection of stories that illuminates his character, personality and history.

Announcement of the next governor of the Vatican

In a historic move, Pope Francis announced that Sister Raffaella Petrini, currently serving as Secretary of the Vatican City Governorate, will become its president in March 2025. This appointment makes her the first woman to hold the position, following the retirement of Cardinal Fernando Vérgez Alzaga, LC.

The Pope celebrated the increasing involvement of women in Vatican leadership, citing Sister Simona Brambilla’s recent appointment as Prefect of the Dicastery for Consecrated Life. “Women manage better than we do,” he quipped, acknowledging the transformative role they play within the Church.

A Voice for the Voiceless: Immigration and Justice

Turning to global issues, Pope Francis condemned proposed mass deportations of immigrants in the United States, calling them “a shame” that punishes the most vulnerable. Reflecting on migration as both a challenge and a necessity, he reiterated his “four verbs” for addressing the crisis: welcome, accompany, promote, and integrate.

The pontiff also revisited his urgent call to address declining birthrates, particularly in aging societies like Italy’s. “If you don’t have children, bring in migrants,” he stated, framing immigration as both a moral imperative and a pragmatic solution.

Conflict and Peace: The Middle East and Beyond

The Pope’s reflections on the Middle East carried a sense of cautious optimism. As a fragile ceasefire unfolded in Gaza, he applauded mediators for their efforts and reaffirmed his belief in a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

“Peace is greater than war,” he stressed, though he acknowledged the courage required to achieve it. “War is always a defeat,” he added, condemning the arms industry for its role in perpetuating violence.

Jubilee 2025: Anchored in Hope

Hope, the theme of the ongoing Holy Year, emerged as a central thread in the interview. The Pope highlighted the spiritual significance of the Jubilee, recalling his unprecedented opening of the Holy Door at Rebibbia Prison in Rome.

“Never forget the prisoners,” he urged, noting that many incarcerated individuals bear less guilt than those who remain free. His compassionate plea underscored his broader mission of inclusion and mercy.

A Moral Reckoning: Abuse, Forgiveness, and Solidarity

Francis did not shy away from addressing the Church’s internal struggles, including the crisis of abuse. Calling it “a great evil,” he emphasized the need for relentless vigilance.

On the topic of sin, he offered a pastoral perspective, rejecting a narrow focus on “sins of the flesh” and emphasizing God’s boundless capacity for forgiveness. “No sin cannot be forgiven,” he reminded listeners, “because God wants everyone to be with Him.”

Personal Moments and Humor

The Pope also shared lighter anecdotes, including a stumble in the Sistine Chapel immediately after his election in 2013. “The infallible Pope began with a fall!” he joked, displaying his trademark humility.

As the interview concluded, Francis left viewers with a poignant message: “Do not miss this opportunity during the Holy Year. Move forward with courage. And never lose your sense of humor.”

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The miracle of the wedding feast at Cana briefly explained by Pope Francis https://zenit.org/2025/01/19/the-miracle-of-the-wedding-feast-at-cana-briefly-explained-by-pope-francis/ Mon, 20 Jan 2025 03:34:10 +0000 https://zenit.org/?p=218331 Allocution on the occasion of the recitation of the Angelus on Sunday, January 19, 2025

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(ZENIT News / Vatican City, 01.19.2025).- At midday on Sunday, January 19, Pope Francis delivered his Sunday address to approximately 20,000 people gathered in St. Peter’s Square. Following the address, he led the recitation of the Angelus prayer and shared a few words commending the «ceasefire» agreement between Israel and Hamas, as well as the release of prisoners in Cuba in the context of the Jubilee 2025. We now present the English translation of the Pope’s Sunday address.

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Dear brothers and sisters, happy Sunday!

The Gospel of today’s liturgy (Jn 2:1-11) tells us about Jesus’ first sign, when He turns water into wine during a wedding feast in Cana, in Galilee. It is an account that foreshadows and encapsulates the whole of Jesus’ mission: on the day of the coming of the Messiah – so said the prophets – the Lord will prepare “a feast of … choice wines” (Is 25:6) and “the mountains shall drip with the juice of grapes” (Am 9:13); Jesus is the Bridegroom who brings the “good wine”.

In this Gospel we can find two things: lack and superabundance.

On the one hand, there is a shortage of wine and Mary tells Her Son: “They have no wine” (v.3); on the other hand, Jesus intervenes, filling six large jars and, in the end, the wine is so abundant and exquisite that the master of the banquet asks the groom why He has kept it until the end (v. 10). Thus, our sign is always lack, but “the sign of God is superabundance”, and the superabundance of Cana is its sign (cf. Benedict XVI, Jesus of Nazareth, vol. I, 294). How does God respond to man’s lack? With superabundance (cf. Rom 5:20). God is not mean! When He gives, He gives a lot. He does not give you a little bit, He gives you a lot. The Lord responds to our shortcomings with His superabundance.

In the banquet of our life – we might say – at times we realize that the wine is missing: that we lack the strength and many things. It happens when the worries that plague us, the fears that assail us or the overwhelming forces of evil rob us of the taste for life, the exhilaration of joy and the flavour of hope. Take note: in the face of this lack, when the Lord gives, He gives in superabundance. It seems to be a contradiction: the more that is lacking in us, the greater the Lord’s superabundance. Because the Lord wants to celebrate with us, in a feast without end.

Let us pray, then, to the Virgin Mary. May She, who is the “woman of the new wine” (cf. A. Bello, Maria, donna dei nostri giorni), intercede for us and, in this Jubilee year, help us to rediscover the joy of the encounter with Jesus.

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Pope Francis to Spanish seminarians: the 3 signs that mark the itinerary https://zenit.org/2025/01/18/pope-francis-to-spanish-seminarians-the-3-signs-that-mark-the-itinerary/ Sun, 19 Jan 2025 03:34:32 +0000 https://zenit.org/?p=218334 In audience to the students and the formators from the San Pelayo and Redemptoris Mater Seminary, the local bishop, Don Demetrio Fernández, also participated in the audience

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(ZENIT News / Vatican City, 01.18.2025).- On the morning of Friday, January 17, Pope Francis received in audience the seminarians of another Spanish seminary, this time from Andalusia: the Seminary of Córdoba. While the reason for these exclusive meetings with seminarians from Spanish dioceses is not known, Pope Francis has chosen to begin the year by welcoming students from yet another Spanish seminary.

In audience to the students and the formators from the San Pelayo and Redemptoris Mater Seminary, the local bishop, Don Demetrio Fernández, also participated in the audience.

We now present the English translation of the Pope’s address, which was followed, as in previous meetings with seminarians from Madrid, Valencia, Barcelona, Seville, Toledo, San Sebastián, and others, by an opportunity for spontaneous questions and answers.

***

Dear brother,
Dear seminarians and formators,

It is a great joy for me to welcome you to this house, to which you come as pilgrims of hope in this Jubilee year. In the journey of life, we can identify hope as the signs that indicate the way to us.

The first sign is the direction: towards heaven, towards the definitive encounter with Jesus. Not in the first positions, not in the most comfortable places: those are blind alleys from which, if we have the misfortune to enter, we must leave in reverse, with effort and shame.

The second sign is the dangers on the way. You come from a beautiful place that takes its name from Saint Pelagius, and occupies the ancient site of the field of the martyrs. As that boy saint did then, in the midst of the pain of a war, of the cruelty most unworthy of the human being, armed with the helmet of hope, you can bear witness, you can persevere on the path of the Lord, convinced that Jesus will always support you and also give you the strength to be sowers of hope.

And the third sign is the areas of refreshment. On this journey, which has now brought you to Rome, to cross the Holy Door and visit the tombs of the apostles, we need to be sustained, to feel the presence of Him who is our hope, Jesus. He presents Himself to us as Master, as Lord, He gives Himself to us as food in His Word and in the Eucharist, He shelters us when we break down in the middle of the road, and He welcomes us when fatigue overcomes us and we have to stop for a pause. Without this hope, setting out would be foolhardy, but trusting in Him, we have no doubt that we will arrive at the desired port.

However, never think that sowing hope means polite words or opting for a honeyed good-naturedness. This path is the path of Jesus, which leads to the heavenly Jerusalem, passing through the earthly one, embraced by the cross, and supported by a myriad of Cyrenes. A path in which one cannot advance alone, but as a community, guiding, defending, assisting and blessing those whom the Lord has left as our task. May Jesus sustain you in all this and may the Virgen de la Fuensanta protect you.

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Pope Francis introduces monthly bonus for large families amid mixed reactions from Vatican employees https://zenit.org/2025/01/18/pope-francis-introduces-monthly-bonus-for-large-families-amid-mixed-reactions-from-vatican-employees/ Sun, 19 Jan 2025 03:23:27 +0000 https://zenit.org/?p=218319 The new measure, announced by the Holy See’s Press Office on January 15, reflects Pope Francis’ ongoing advocacy for family welfare. The bonus will continue until children reach the age of 18 or 24 if they remain in education, aligning Vatican policies with those of several European countries that provide substantial benefits for large families.

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(ZENIT News / Vatican City, 01.18.2024).- In a gesture of support for large families, Pope Francis has implemented a financial bonus for Vatican employees with three or more children. Starting January 2025, eligible workers under the Governorate of Vatican City State will receive €300 (approximately $310) per month per household—a total of €3,600 annually. While the move has been welcomed as a step toward recognizing the challenges of parenting, it has also sparked debate and discontent among Vatican staff over its limited scope and perceived inequities.

Financial Support for Families: A Step Forward

The new measure, announced by the Holy See’s Press Office on January 15, reflects Pope Francis’ ongoing advocacy for family welfare. The bonus will continue until children reach the age of 18 or 24 if they remain in education, aligning Vatican policies with those of several European countries that provide substantial benefits for large families.

The Pope has also expanded paternity leave for Vatican employees from three to five days, marking another effort to support working parents. This change builds on an earlier extension in 2022, when paternity leave increased from one to three days. However, some critics argue that even the updated leave remains modest compared to countries like Italy, where fathers are granted 10 days of paid leave.

Exclusions and Criticisms Spark Debate

Despite the intent, the initiative has drawn criticism for its narrow application. Currently, the bonus only applies to employees of the Governorate of Vatican City State, which includes around 2,000 of the Vatican’s 4,800 staff members. This leaves a significant portion of employees—those working in the Roman Curia and other Vatican institutions—excluded from the benefit.

The Association of Lay Employees of the Vatican (ADLV) expressed cautious optimism, praising the effort but pointing out its limitations. In a public statement, the ADLV emphasized the need for broader inclusion, particularly for families with fewer than three children or those caring for disabled dependents over the age of 18 who cannot attend school.

“The initiative is welcome, but it raises questions of fairness,” the ADLV noted. “All employees should benefit from subsidies and bonuses, regardless of their department or family size.”

Disparities in Employee Benefits

The bonus announcement has also reignited discussions about income disparities within Vatican employment sectors. Employees in high-profile divisions, such as the Vatican Museums, reportedly enjoy better remuneration compared to those in less visible roles. The ADLV highlighted the disparity by contrasting the €300 family bonus with recent €200 Amazon gift cards distributed to employees of the Administration of the Patrimony of the Apostolic See (APSA).

“For some, a financial bonus; for others, a panettone,” the ADLV remarked, referencing the traditional Italian Christmas cake that has been offered to employees as holiday gifts.

The new measures come amid a broader context of financial austerity in Vatican City. Pope Francis recently announced significant budget cuts. Additionally, the Pope has hinted at impending reforms to the Vatican Pension Fund, acknowledging that “difficult decisions” lie ahead.

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Pope’s baptism of 21 children in the Sistine Chapel https://zenit.org/2025/01/12/popes-baptism-of-21-children-in-the-sistine-chapel/ Mon, 13 Jan 2025 00:33:33 +0000 https://zenit.org/?p=218276 The annual tradition of baptizing the children of Vatican staff began in 1981 under Pope John Paul II. While the first ceremonies were held in the Pauline Chapel, the Sistine Chapel has hosted this sacred event since 1983. Pope Francis has carried forward this legacy, adding his own touch of pastoral care and accessibility.

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(ZENIT News / Vatican City, 01.12.2024).- On Sunday, January 12, the iconic Sistine Chapel became a sanctuary of new beginnings as Pope Francis baptized 21 children of Vatican employees. The celebration, rich in tradition and brimming with heartfelt simplicity, was marked by the Pontiff’s tender approach and the joyous spirit of the families in attendance.

A Celebration for the Youngest Souls

Under the gaze of Michelangelo’s frescoes, Pope Francis welcomed Sofia, Vittoria, Tancredi Tito, Edwin Gabriel, and 17 others into the Catholic faith, emphasizing the central role of children in the day’s events. «Today, they are the ones in charge,» the Pope remarked with a smile, inviting parents and all present to embrace a spirit of service. Mothers were encouraged to feed and comfort their babies as needed, embodying the nurturing atmosphere of the sacrament.

Sacred Rituals with Personal Touches

Pope Francis’ «homily» was brief but poignant, focused on the hope that these children «grow in faith» and experience «true humanity and joy within their families.» The service was steeped in tradition but infused with the personal warmth that has come to define Francis’ papacy.

Accompanied by Cardinals Konrad Krajewski and Fernando Vérgez Alzaga, LC, the baptismal rites unfolded with reverence and care. The children’s chests were anointed with the oil of catechumens, their heads were bathed with holy water, and their foreheads marked with the sacred chrism. Parents lit baptismal candles from the Paschal flame, symbolizing the light of faith entrusted to their care.

The «Effata» rite, invoking Jesus’ healing of a deaf-mute man in the Gospel of Mark, was also performed, with the cardinals gently touching the ears and lips of the infants to symbolize their opening to the word of God and the call to proclaim it.

A Legacy of Faith and Family

The annual tradition of baptizing the children of Vatican staff began in 1981 under Pope John Paul II. While the first ceremonies were held in the Pauline Chapel, the Sistine Chapel has hosted this sacred event since 1983. Pope Francis has carried forward this legacy, adding his own touch of pastoral care and accessibility.

At the conclusion of the service, Pope Francis personally greeted each family, exchanging warm words and offering a gift to commemorate the occasion. His gestures highlighted the Church’s commitment to supporting families as the first teachers of faith.

 Faith Rooted in Everyday Life

Pope Francis’ approach to the sacrament reflected his broader vision of a Church that meets people where they are. By prioritizing the comfort and needs of the children, he modeled the spirit of humility and service that he hopes will guide their lives.

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The baptism of Jesus explained by the Pope with “face and voice” https://zenit.org/2025/01/12/the-baptism-of-jesus-explained-by-the-pope-with-face-and-voice/ Sun, 12 Jan 2025 20:29:47 +0000 https://zenit.org/?p=218273 Allocution on the occasion of the recitation of the Angelus on Sunday, January 12, 2025

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(ZENIT News / Vatican City, 01.12.2024).- At midday on Sunday, January 12, Pope Francis delivered his traditional Sunday address, followed by the recitation of the Angelus prayer. According to the Holy See Press Office, around 30,000 pilgrims were present in St. Peter’s Square. Toward the end, the Pope expressed his solidarity with those affected by the fires in Los Angeles: «I am close to the residents of Los Angeles County, California, where devastating fires have occurred in recent days. I pray for all of you.» We now offer the English translation of the Sunday address.

***

Dear brothers and sisters, happy Sunday!

The feast of the Baptism of Jesus, which we celebrate today, makes us think of many things, including our own Baptism. Jesus joins His people, who are going to receive baptism for the forgiveness of sins. I like to recall the words of a hymn of today’s liturgy: Jesus goes to be baptized by John, “with a bare soul and bare feet”. A bare soul and bare feet.

And when Jesus receives baptism, the Spirit manifests Himself and the Epiphany of God occurs; He reveals His face in the Son and makes His voice heard, which says: “You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased” (v. 22). The face and the voice.

First of all, the face. In revealing Himself to be the Father through the Son, God establishes a special space for entering into dialogue and communion with humanity. It is the face of the beloved Son.

In second place, the voiceFace and voice. “You are my beloved Son” (v. 22). This is another sign that accompanies the revelation of Jesus.

Dear brothers and sisters, today’s feast makes us contemplate the face and the voice of God, which are manifested in Jesus’ humanity. And so, let us ask ourselves: do we feel loved? Do I feel loved and accompanied by God, or do I think that God is distant from me? Are we capable of recognizing His face in Jesus and in our brothers and sisters? And are we accustomed to listening to His voice?

I will ask you a question: does every one of you remember the date of your Baptism? This is very important! Think: on what day was I baptized? And if we do not remember, when we arrive home, let us ask our parents or our godparents the date of our Baptism. And let us celebrate this date as if it were a new birthday: that of our birth in the Spirit of God. Do not forget! This is our homework: the date of our Baptism.

Let us entrust ourselves to the Virgin Mary, invoking Her help. And do not forget the date of your Baptism!

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“Begin again»: Pope Francis inaugurates extraordinary general audiences on Saturdays on the occasion of the Jubilee https://zenit.org/2025/01/11/begin-again-pope-francis-inaugurates-extraordinary-general-audiences-on-saturdays-on-the-occasion-of-the-jubilee/ Sun, 12 Jan 2025 00:33:57 +0000 https://zenit.org/?p=218279 Extraordinary General Audience on Saturdays on the occasion of the Jubilee, January 11, 2025 on Begin again

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(ZENIT News / Vatican City, 01.11.2024).- On Saturday, January 11, Pope Francis held his first extraordinary general audience on the occasion of the Jubilee. This is an additional public general audience, separate from the regular Wednesday audiences. In May 2024, it was announced that this option would follow a dynamic similar to the usual Wednesday audiences. At the beginning of the audience, the Pope shared that the catecheses would focus on an aspect of hope.

The Prefecture of the Pontifical Household has provided a website with the updated schedule of the Pope’s audiences—including the regular Wednesday audiences and the extraordinary Saturday ones—available at this link: https://eventi.pontificalisdomus.va/.

We now offer the English translation of the Pope’s address.

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Dear brothers and sisters, good morning!

Many of you are here in Rome as “pilgrims of hope”. This morning, we are starting the Saturday Jubilee audiences, which will ideally welcome and embrace all those who are coming from all over the world in search of a new beginning. Indeed, the Jubilee is a new beginning, the possibility for everyone to start anew from God. With the Jubilee we start a new life, a new phase.

On these Saturdays I would like to highlight, from time to time, some aspects of hope. It is a theological virtue, the Catechism tells us. And in Latin, virtus means “strength”; thus, it is a strength that comes from God. Hope, therefore, is not a habit or a character trait – that you either have or you don’t – but a strength to be asked for. That is why we make ourselves pilgrims: we come to ask for a gift, to start again on life’s journey.

We are about to celebrate the Feast of the Baptism of Jesus, and this makes us think about that great prophet of hopeJohn the Baptist. Jesus said something wonderful about him: that he is the greatest among those born of women (cf. Lk 7:28). We understand then why so many people flocked to him, longing for a new beginning, longing to start over. And the Jubilee helps us in this. The Baptist appeared truly great, he appeared credible in his personality. Just as we today pass through the Holy Door, so John proposed to cross the river Jordan, entering the Promised Land as Joshua had done the first time. To begin again, to receive the land all over again, like the first time. Sisters and brothers, this is the word: begin again. Let us put this in our heads and let us all say together: “begin again”. Let us say it together: begin again! [all repeat several times] There, don’t forget this: begin again.

Jesus, however, immediately after that great compliment, adds something that makes us think: “I tell you, among those born of women, no one is greater than John; yet the least in the kingdom of God is greater than he” (v. 28). Hope, brothers and sisters, is everything in this qualitative step. It does not depend on us, but on the Kingdom of God. Here is the surprise: welcoming the Kingdom of God leads us to a new order of greatness. Our world, all of us, we need this! And us, what must we do? [Everyone: “Begin again!”]. Do not forget this.

When Jesus utters those words, the Baptist is in jail, full of questions. We too bring many questions on our pilgrimage, because there are many “Herods” who still oppose the Kingdom of God. Jesus, however, shows us the new path, the path of the Beatitudes, which are the surprising law of the Gospel. Let us ask ourselves, then: do I have within me a true desire to start again? Think about it, each one of you: inside myself, do I want to begin again? Do I want to learn from Jesus who is truly great? The least, in the Kingdom of God, is great. Because we must … [Everyone: “Begin again!”].

From John the Baptist, then, we learn to recreate ourselves. Hope for our common home – this Earth of ours, so abused and wounded – and the hope for all human beings resides in the difference of God. His greatness is different. And let us start again from this originality of God, which shone in Jesus and which now binds us to serve, to love fraternally, to acknowledge ourselves as small. And to see the least, to listen to them and to be their voice. Here is the new beginning, our Jubilee. And so we must… [Everyone: “Begin again!”].

Thank you.

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