(VIDEO ONLY)
The cold, winter temperatures are here to stay, but the faithful once again gathered in St. Peter's Square to listen to Pope Leo's sermon for the final General Audience of 2025.
On the occasion of the Jubilee — now approaching its official end on January 6 — a relic of Saint Thérèse of Lisieux has arrived in Rome. The Pope prayed before it prior to beginning the general audience. During his sermon, he recalled his predecessor, Pope Francis, who passed away this past April. He also explained the reason why the Church sings the Te Deum, a prayer to thank the Lord for the blessings we have received, at the close of every year.
Pope Leo noted that 2025 has been a year of change, conflict, and sorrow, but also of joy for the Church, especially through the Jubilee of Hope. He reminded us that we are all pilgrims.
SUMMARY OF THE GENERAL AUDIENCE SERMON (ENGLISH):
Dear brothers and sisters,
In the scripture passage we have just listened to, Saint Paul reminds us that God is able to accomplish far more than we can ever ask or imagine. This evening, trusting in this power and love, we will sing the Te Deum in thanksgiving for the many gifts we have received from God throughout the year. We are also invited to reflect on how we, in turn, have responded, and to ask for God’s mercy, like the many pilgrims who have passed through the Holy Door in search of forgiveness. This Jubilee Year has been a strong reminder that life itself is a journey towards encounter and communion with God, who has become our companion by sharing in our humanity. During this Christmas season, let us open our hearts to the love of God made visible in the Child born in Bethlehem, and so come to share in the joy of salvation.
I extend a warm welcome this morning to all the English-speaking pilgrims and visitors taking part in today’s Audience, especially those coming from Australia, China, Palestine, the Philippines and the United States of America. As we prepare for tomorrow’s celebration of the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God, let us entrust the coming year to her maternal intercession. To all of you and your families, I offer my prayerful good wishes for a blessed Christmas season and a new year filled with joy and peace. God bless you all!
