Pope at Lunch with the Poor: Humanity is God’s Most Beautiful Creation

Vatican, August 18, 2025: Before joining the poor supported by Caritas Albano for lunch in the Gardens of the Pontifical Villas at Castel Gandolfo, Pope Leo XIV reminded everyone that each person is created in God’s image and that “we can recognise God’s presence in every individual.”

Speaking informally beneath the large gazebo set up for the meal, the Pope invited reflection on the beauty of creation. “The most beautiful of all creation is what was made in God’s image—that is, each one of us,” he said. He stressed that every person reflects this divine image and urged that we never forget this truth. The gathering itself, he added, was an experience of communion, fraternity, and sharing life with God.

Breaking Bread Together

More than a hundred guests—poor and vulnerable people assisted by the diocesan Caritas of Albano, including residents of shelters, group homes, and those supported by listening centres—shared the meal with the Pope. He spoke of the profound meaning of “breaking bread together, a gesture through which we acknowledge Christ present among us.”

“It is the Holy Mass,” he explained, “but also all of us gathered around the table, sharing the gifts the Lord has given us.”

Before the meal, Pope Leo prayed for God’s blessing on the food, on those who prepared it, and on all who made the celebration possible. He concluded with the words: “Help us, Lord, to always live united in Your love.”

Pope at Lunch with the Poor: Humanity is God’s Most Beautiful Creation

Latest News