During his Sunday Angelus address in St. Peter's Square, Pope Francis reiterated the Lord's call to reject hypocrisy and instead humbly serve with a heart of tenderness. Reflecting on the Gospel passage from St. Mark, which recounts Jesus' denunciation of hypocrisy in the Temple, Pope Francis urged the faithful to be cautious of hypocrites and to strive to live in a way that is faithful, loving, and credible.

 Pope highlighted how some scribes, though entrusted with the sacred duty of reading, transcribing, and interpreting the Scriptures for the community of Israel, often did not practice what they taught. While they were held in high regard, many used their status to act arrogantly, hiding behind a facade of false respectability. "Some, relying on the prestige and power they enjoyed, looked down on others, acting arrogantly and hiding behind a facade of fake respectability and legalism," Pope Francis remarked, condemning such behavior as "very ugly" and cautioning against looking down on others.

Pope Francis further observed that even the prayers of certain individuals risked losing their true essence as moments of encounter with God. Instead, these prayers became platforms to showcase false piety. He warned against such behavior, recalling Jesus' own advice to "steer clear of such people" and not to imitate them.

In contrast to these attitudes, Pope Francis emphasized that Jesus teaches us to see authority through the lens of self-sacrifice and humble service. He spoke of a leadership rooted in maternal and paternal tenderness, especially for those who are most in need. Pope noted that true authority does not aim to humiliate others but to lift them up, to give them hope, and to extend assistance.

Pope Francis invited all the faithful to reflect on their attitudes within their own areas of responsibility. He encouraged them to ask themselves, "How do I behave in my areas of responsibility? Do I act with humility, or do I take pride in my position? Am I generous and respectful to others, or do I treat them rudely and authoritatively?" He also encouraged deeper self-examination: "With my more fragile brothers and sisters, do I stay close to them, ready to help them get back on their feet?"

Concluding his address, Pope Francis prayed for the intercession of the Blessed Mother to help everyone combat the temptation of hypocrisy, to do good without seeking recognition, and to act with simplicity. Through her guidance, he prayed, may we be freed from false pretenses and embody true tenderness in our daily lives, humbly serving others with love and integrity.