This year, Pope Francis made his last public appearance on Easter Sunday, delivering the traditional Urbi et Orbi message, which translates to "to the city and to the world." However, this year's speech was particularly unique as the pope, currently recovering from bilateral pneumonia, sat on the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica in Rome while Archbishop Diego Ravelli read the message on his behalf.
The Easter message began with a profound celebration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ, heralding it as the cornerstone of our hope. The pope emphasized that, "in the light of this event, hope is no longer an illusion." He proclaimed that through Christ—who was crucified and has risen from the dead—hope does not disappoint, echoing the words "Spes non confundit!" (cf. Rom 5:5). This powerful assertion highlights that hope is not merely an escape but a call to action, empowering individuals to face challenges head-on.
Pope Francis articulated that all who place their trust in God are invited to extend their hands, which may feel weak, into His strong and mighty hand. By doing so, they embark on a journey together with the risen Jesus, becoming true pilgrims of hope and witnesses to the triumph of love and the unassailable power of life. "Christ is risen!" he affirmed, encapsulating the essence of human existence, as we are created not for death, but for life.
During his message, the pope highlighted the sanctity of life, noting that God has created each of us for life and desires the human family to rise anew. He stressed the preciousness of every life, from a child in the womb to the elderly and the sick, who are often marginalized in various societies. "What a great thirst for death, for killing, we witness each day in the many conflicts raging in different parts of our world!" he lamented, pointing to the violence that often permeates families and communities.
On this significant day, Pope Francis called for a renewal of hope, urging everyone to trust in one another, including those different from themselves or from distant lands, who bring new customs and ideas. "For all of us are children of God!" he declared, inviting a spirit of unity and understanding. He emphasized the importance of believing that peace is attainable and expressed his heartfelt wishes for peace globally, particularly for the Israeli and Palestinian people, as well as communities in Lebanon, Syria, Yemen, Ukraine, the South Caucasus, the Balkans, and various regions in Africa, including the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Sudan, and South Sudan.
Concluding his poignant message, Pope Francis reflected on the Paschal Mystery, where "death and life contended in a stupendous struggle," reassuring the faithful that the Lord now lives forever (cf. Easter Sequence). He instilled confidence that all are called to partake in a life that knows no end, a time when the sounds of conflict and death will cease. "Let us entrust ourselves to him, for he alone can make all things new" (cf. Rev 21:5), he concluded, leaving a powerful message of hope and renewal for all.
