Addressing the faithful in Saint Peter’s Square, Pope Leo XIV spoke of Christ’s warnings about the end times and encouraged Christians to hope when confronted with evils like war and natural disaster.
The Holy Father began his Nov. 16 address by referring to the day’s Gospel reading, Luke 21: 5-19, saying that it “invites us to reflect on the travails of history and the end times.” He said that Jesus teaches people not to be overcome by fear.
He observed that Christ’s words in the Gospel reading are timely because people now hear daily about wars, disasters, and persecutions.
“However, in the face of these afflictions, and in the face of the indifference that seeks to ignore them, Jesus’ words proclaim that the attack of evil cannot destroy the hope of those who trust in him,” he said. “The darker the hour, the more faith shines like the sun.”
The Pontiff pointed out that, in the short reading, Christ warns twice that many will suffer violence and betrayal because of His name. However, Pope Leo said, it is precisely when undergoing such violence that Christians are given great opportunity to witness. Christians, he said, are called to follow in the path of Christ, who showed His great love on the cross.
He explained that Christ’s words testify to the reality that the pains people suffer will come to an end, but that the joy of Heaven will be eternal.
“This promise of the Lord gives us the strength to resist the threatening events of history and every offense,” he said. “We do not remain powerless in the face of suffering, because he himself gives us ‘words and a wisdom’ always to do the good with a fervent heart.”
The Holy Father concluded his address by reflecting on the witness of the martyrs and encouraging all to ask for the Blessed Virgin Mary’s intercession in every trial.
After his address, Pope Leo offered his prayers for many currently suffering. He also mentioned Blessed Carmelo De Palma, who was beatified Nov. 15. He briefly discussed the World Day of the Poor and greeted several groups of pilgrims.