Welcome to St. Peter’s Basilica, where the year was bid farewell with a traditional prayer of thanksgiving at the First Vespers to Mary Most Holy Mother of God. The ceremony was graced by Pope Francis, joined by 36 cardinals, 22 bishops, 40 priests, and the Mayor of Rome, Roberto Gualtieri.
During his homily, Pope Francis spoke about the challenges and infrastructural projects undertaken in Rome for the Jubilee. Despite the demands, the Pontiff expressed hope that these improvements would create a welcoming environment for all pilgrims, fostering a sense of fraternity.
Embracing Fraternity and Hospitality
Pope Francis emphasized the value of dignified work and extended a message of inclusivity, thanking God for enabling efforts in the city:
“Rome is called to welcome everyone so that all may recognize themselves as children of God and brothers and sisters to each other.”
Referencing the encyclical Fratelli tutti, the Pope highlighted universal fraternity as central to the Holy Year. Rome, he noted, has become a hub for people of various faiths and backgrounds, united in seeking truth, justice, and peace.
Expressing Gratitude and Hope
Deviating from his prepared speech, Pope Francis thanked the Mayor of Rome and all the workers who contributed to the city’s development:
“We admire with gratitude the results of the works carried out in the city and thank the many men and women who made it possible, and the Mayor for leading this effort.”
Pope Francis invoked the help of Mary, urging introspection for personal growth and commitment to fraternity. He emphasized that hope for a better world lies in Christ, not in ideologies or systems. He concluded by seeking forgiveness for sins and praying for strength in the upcoming year:
“The hope for a fraternal world is not an ideology, it is not an economic system, it is not technological progress. The hope for a fraternal world is Him, the incarnate Son.”
With these profound words, Pope Francis concluded the ceremony, renewing hope and dedication to a more inclusive and welcoming future.
