Gathered in St. Peter’s Square, Pope Francis bowed his head in prayer for peace, honoring the memory of today’s martyrs and shedding light on the global plight of discrimination and persecution.
By Francesca Merlo
During his Sunday Angelus address, Pope Francis urged all those present to appeal to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, asking for a change of heart in those who seek conflict, and to embrace pathways of dialogue and harmony.
He reiterated his call to continue praying for peace in regions like Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, Myanmar, and in countless other areas marked by the devastating consequences of war.
A Time of Martyrdom
Following the recitation of the Marian Prayer, Pope Francis took a moment to acknowledge today’s significance as the liturgical commemoration of the first Roman martyrs, often referred to as the early martyrs of the Church of Rome. “We are currently witnessing a time of martyrdom,” the Pope remarked, highlighting the increasing number of individuals facing discrimination and persecution for their faith worldwide.
He spoke of the silent suffering endured by many Christians through what he termed “white-glove” martyrdom – a subtle form of persecution leading to exclusion and social discrimination. “Let us stand in solidarity with them and draw strength from their unwavering devotion to Christ,” Pope Francis concluded.
