Fr. Łukasz Bańkowski – Vatican City
Following the Sunday Angelus prayer, Leo XIV drew attention to the dramatic events of recent days.
Remembering the victims in Haiti
He recalled the victims of the massacre in Haiti. The Pope assured them of his prayerful closeness to the victims and their families, and called for the immediate release of all hostages. “I make a heartfelt appeal to all those responsible to commit to ensuring the safety of the population and putting an end to all forms of violence,” Leo XIV said.
Solidarity with those affected in Nepal and Tibet
The Pope also assured of his prayers for those affected by the catastrophic floods in Nepal and Tibet. He asked for prayers for those who lost their lives, the injured and missing, their families, and the rescue workers. He expressed hope that the solidarity and commitment of all will help alleviate suffering and provide necessary assistance to those affected.
An appeal for peace with St. Augustine
Leo XIV also renewed his call to pray for peace, referencing St. Augustine, whose memorial the Church celebrated on August 28. The Pope recalled the words of the Bishop of Hippo: “Peace […] is like bread that, when broken and shared, grew in the hands of the Lord’s disciples.”
He appealed for an increase in the world of people who “courageously break and distribute the bread of peace,” overcoming divisions, fostering justice, and practicing forgiveness.
Then, speaking in English, Leo XIV reminded the faithful of Tuesday’s World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation, which marks the beginning of the Season of Creation celebrated by Christians of various denominations. Its theme this year is “Living Water.” The Pope encouraged prayer and action “so that we may become channels of the living water of God’s peace, refreshing our wounded world.”
HERE IS THE POPE’S FULL SPEECH AND REFLECTION BEFORE THE ANGELUS PRAYER
Greetings to pilgrims and thanks for assistance
Greeting the pilgrims, Leo XIV mentioned, among others, the participants of the “Run to Rome” charity event, the young people participating in the traveling Via Lucis, the devotees of Our Lady of Miracles from Corbetta, and the motorcyclists who gathered for their annual meeting.
In conclusion, the Pope thanked the law enforcement services and everyone who contributed to organizing his summer stay in Castel Gandolfo and ensured safety during meetings with pilgrims. He also greeted the faithful participating in the Angelus prayer in St. Peter’s Square.
