Pope Leo XIV celebrated his first Mass at the Papal Archbasilica of St. John Lateran, the historical seat of the Bishop of Rome. The Pontiff, in his homily, emphasized the importance of listening, urging the faithful to heed the voice of God. This significant event took place in the Cathedral of Rome, where the Pope greeted dignitaries and expressed his desire for Rome to embody the values of humanity and civilization rooted in the Gospel.
Before the Mass, Pope Leo XIV visited Rome’s Capitoline Hill, where he was warmly welcomed by the city’s mayor and civic authorities. Acknowledging Rome’s rich history and unique mission as the Mother of all Churches, the Pope highlighted the city’s legacy of faith and martyrdom. Quoting Pope Francis, he underscored the Church’s maternal qualities of tenderness, sacrifice, and attentive listening, calling for their growth within the People of God.
Reflecting on the day’s readings, which focused on the early Christian community’s outreach to the pagan world, Pope Leo XIV stressed the paramount importance of listening to God’s voice. He emphasized the role of prayer and conversion in fostering communion and understanding among believers. Guided by the Spirit, the Pontiff encouraged reliance on divine teaching and remembrance of Christ’s words in making life’s decisions.
Regarding the Spirit’s transformative work within individuals, Pope Leo XIV likened the inscription of God’s law on hearts to becoming living testimonies of Christ. He emphasized the need for believers to allow themselves to be purified and transformed by the Spirit, enabling them to authentically proclaim the Gospel through their words, desires, and actions.
The Pope concluded by highlighting the Spirit’s role in reminding believers of the depth and beauty of their faith, urging them to continually reflect on and savor the truths they have learned. By internalizing the teachings of Christ and allowing the Spirit to guide their hearts, the faithful can embody the Gospel’s message with simplicity, sincerity, and generosity.
As Pope Leo XIV’s Mass at St. John Lateran concluded, the faithful were reminded of the profound call to listen to God’s voice, embody the maternal traits of the Church, and allow the Spirit to transform their lives for the proclamation of the Gospel.
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