On June 29, 2024, despite the scorching 93-degree-Fahrenheit heat, St. Peter’s Square was packed with thousands of pilgrims.
They gathered to witness Pope Francis deliver a special Angelus address on the solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul.
“We see St. Peter depicted holding two large keys, as in the statue here in this square,” the Pope began.
“Those keys represent the ministry of authority that Jesus entrusted to him in the service of all the Church.
Because authority is a service, and authority that is not service is dictatorship.”
Pope Francis encouraged everyone to help others “find the way” to enter the house of God by practicing virtues like patience, constancy, and humility.
He emphasized that the mission given to Peter was not to restrict entry to a few select individuals, but to help everyone find their way in, adhering to the Gospel of Jesus.
“For everyone: Everyone, everyone, everyone can enter!”
Special Greetings
After his address, the Pope extended special greetings to the people of Rome, highlighting the importance of this day for them.
He also expressed his closeness to those who are sick, elderly, alone, or imprisoned, and asked for prayers for those suffering due to war.
“I greet each one and invite everyone to have the experience of Peter and Paul — that the love of Christ that saves lives will push them to share this life with joy and gratuity,” he said.
Holy Mass Highlights
The event also included a Holy Mass presided over by Pope Francis in St. Peter’s Basilica, where he blessed the pallium for new metropolitan archbishops.
This significant gesture is a hallmark of the solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul, the patron saints of Rome.
Religion News
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