Summary:

Dear brothers and sisters:

As pilgrims, your time here in Rome unites desire and decision, kindling in your hearts the fire spoken of in today’s Scripture passage, and inspiring you to concrete actions born of that desire. We see this same dynamic reflected in the life of an American Catholic by the name of Dorothy Day. Moved by the fire of love, she denounced the indifference of false peace and the injustices of her time. Jesus also tells us that to whom much has been given, much will be expected. Let us never forget that the Lord asks much of us precisely because he loves us and wants what is best for us. Today, we humbly ask the Lord to help us to recognize the many gifts we have been given, and to show us how to take a stand in our own lives to promote a society that truly reflects the love of the Gospel.

Greeting:

I extend a warm welcome to the English-speaking pilgrims and visitors taking part in today’s Jubilee Audience, especially those coming from England, Indonesia and Thailand. As we prepare to celebrate the Solemnity of Christ the King, may his Kingdom of peace and love instill hope in the hearts of all men and women of goodwill. God bless you all!