Pope Francis at Angelus: Be Messengers of Hope and Windows of Light

Vatican, January 7, 2025: At the Sunday Angelus, Pope Francis called on Christians to imitate God’s love and bring hope to a world in need, emphasizing that Christmas reminds us how God always finds ways to reach everyone, even in humanity's darkest moments. Addressing pilgrims in St. Peter’s Square, the Pope reflected on the Gospel, highlighting God’s unwavering love that overcomes barriers, confronts hardships, and shines as a guiding light despite rejection.

Pope Francis underscored that Jesus' Incarnation reveals a God who bridges walls and divisions, sharing in the struggles of Mary and Joseph. In a world marked by challenges and despair, he affirmed, “God never stops,” finding countless ways to reach people and “opening windows of light even in the darkest nights of humanity.”

The Pope urged Christians to embody this divine love by becoming glimmers of light in their own environments. "We are called to open bright windows of proximity to those who are suffering, of forgiveness, compassion, and reconciliation,” he said, emphasizing the courage needed to take the first step toward healing relationships and fostering peace.

Pope Francis further tied this message to the Jubilee Year, calling it a time to embrace the role of messengers of hope. He encouraged the faithful to reflect on how they can be instruments of God’s love, asking, “How can I open a window of light in my environment and in my relationships?” The Holy Father concluded his Angelus remarks by invoking Mary, “the star that leads us to Jesus,” to guide Christians in becoming “shining witnesses” of God’s boundless love.

After the Angelus, Pope Francis appealed for peace in conflict-stricken regions, including Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, Syria, Myanmar, and Sudan. He called on the international community to act decisively to uphold humanitarian law, urging continued prayers for peace worldwide.

Courtesy: Vatican