Vatican City - Pope Francis expressed his profound gratitude to the members of St. Peter’s Circle for their longstanding service to the Church and their efforts in preparing Rome for the upcoming Jubilee of Hope. He encouraged them to pass down their heritage and foster a spirit of love and charity.

A Legacy of Service
The Holy Father conveyed his appreciation during a Monday morning audience at the Vatican, addressing the St. Peter’s Circle, a volunteer association established in 1869 by young Romans. For 155 years, the Circle has been instrumental in supporting the Church’s charitable missions and aiding those in need.

Pope Francis fondly recalled the Circle's history of service to previous Popes and extended his best wishes to their ailing President, hoping for his swift recovery. He emphasized the importance of remembering their roots, which he said are essential for sustaining life and ensuring a prosperous future.

"I feel gratitude for the service you do for the poor of Rome," he said, noting that their work is done "in the name of the Pope and of Holy Mother Church." Reflecting on a book documenting the Popes' interactions with St. Peter’s Circle, he highlighted the importance of such collections in preserving their heritage.

"Without roots, there is no life and no future," Pope Francis remarked, reminding the members that the health of their organization depends on maintaining strong roots. He urged them to treasure their heritage and avoid allowing it to become sterile.

"This is why I encourage you to pass on your heritage of values and experiences to the young," he added, underscoring the role of young people in driving the organization forward. He praised the idea of a grandfather passing his experiences in the Circle to his grandson, highlighting how an elder's example can impart lived faith, practical charity, and love for the poor.

Preparing for the Jubilee of Hope
Pope Francis also spoke about the upcoming 2025 Jubilee of Hope, emphasizing that it should be an occasion for charity. He urged that pilgrims and tourists in Rome should experience the "air of Christian charity," which is characterized by dignity, closeness, and sharing without seeking publicity or recognition.

"With your presence, with your closeness, compassion and tenderness, you too prepare the city for the Jubilee," he said, stressing that this preparation involves more than just infrastructural work but also caring for the hearts and flesh of the poor, whom he described as the treasure of the Church, quoting St. Laurence.

Pope Francis concluded by blessing all those present and their families, entrusting them to the protection of Mary Salus Populi Romani (Mary, Health of the Roman People).