Welcome to the blog post about the traditional prayer of thanksgiving held in St. Peter’s Basilica, concluding the year with the First Vespers to Mary Most Holy Mother of God. Pope Francis presided over this ceremony, surrounded by 36 cardinals, 22 bishops, and 40 priests, along with the mayor of Rome, Roberto Gualtieri.
During his homily, Pope Francis reflected on the challenges and infrastructural works carried out in Rome in preparation for the Jubilee. Despite the demands, the Pontiff expressed hope that these improvements would create a welcoming environment for all pilgrims of hope, transforming “what is not human” into a desire for fraternity.
A Call to Fraternity and Welcome
The Pope emphasized the importance of dignified work and its intrinsic value. He reiterated his message of welcoming everyone, expressing gratitude to God for the city’s efforts:
“Rome is called to welcome everyone so that everyone can recognize themselves as children of God and brothers and sisters among themselves.”
Francis referenced the Encyclical Fratelli tutti, highlighting universal fraternity as key to the Holy Year. He described Rome as a construction site meant to welcome people from all over the world, including Catholics, Christians of other confessions, believers of various religions, and seekers of truth, justice, and peace.
Gratitude and Hope
Departing from the prepared text, Pope Francis specifically thanked the Mayor of Rome and all workers who contributed to the city’s development:
“We admire with gratitude the results of the works carried out in the city, and we thank the work of so many men and women who have made it possible, and the Lord Mayor for carrying out this work.”
The Pontiff also called upon the help of Mary, encouraging everyone to introspect and foster conversion and commitment to fraternity. He emphasized that the hope of a fraternal world is rooted in Christ, the incarnate Son. Pope Francis concluded by asking for forgiveness for sins and seeking strength from the Lord to progress on the pilgrimage in the coming year:
“The hope of a fraternal world is not an ideology, it is not an economic system, it is not technological progress. The hope of a fraternal world is He, the incarnate Son.”
With these powerful words, Pope Francis closed the ceremony, renewing hope and commitment to a more fraternal and welcoming future.
