Albano: Celebrating Sunday Mass at the Cathedral of Albano near his summer retreat in Castel Gandolfo, Pope Leo XIV invited the faithful to embrace the summer season not just for rest, but as a sacred opportunity to pause, reflect, and rekindle their relationship with God and others.
Marking his third Sunday at the papal summer residence, the Pope began his homily with a lighthearted reference to a previously postponed visit. “As many of you know, I had planned to be here on May 12, but the Holy Spirit had different ideas,” he said with a smile, adding that he was filled with joy to finally be among the community.
Reflecting on the day’s Scripture readings, Pope Leo focused on three pillars of Christian living hospitality, service, and attentive listening. Drawing from the Genesis account of Abraham welcoming three visitors, the Pope emphasized how sincere hospitality opens doors for divine encounters. “Abraham’s warmth transformed the stillness of the day into a moment brimming with love and care,” he said, noting how the promise of a child was revealed during this gesture of openness.
Turning to the Gospel, Pope Leo reflected on the story of Martha and Mary. He urged the faithful not to interpret their actions as opposing virtues but as complementary expressions of love. “Martha’s service and Mary’s listening are both essential,” he explained. “Together, they reveal the heart of true hospitality welcoming not just with our hands, but with our hearts.”
He emphasized the importance of silence and interior stillness in an age flooded with noise and distraction. “To hear God’s voice, we must make space for silence,” the Pope said, calling Christians to reclaim time for prayer and Scripture, especially during the quieter summer months. “Summer can be a season of spiritual awakening if we let it,” he added.
Encouraging acts of kindness, family bonding, and visiting those in need, the Pope called on the faithful to use their summer not only to rest but to cultivate deeper relationships. “Listening, visiting, and caring are all acts of love. They create peace, bridge divisions, and build lasting bonds among people and nations.”
In closing, Pope Leo presented a liturgical vestment to Bishop Vincenzo Viva as a token of unity and gratitude. “This gift is a sign of our closeness and appreciation. Thank you, Your Excellency, and thank you to your people for your faithful service,” the Pope said.
His message was a gentle yet powerful call to rediscover the sacred in everyday moments through hospitality, service, and above all, the quiet strength of listening.