Vatican City: At the Chrism Mass in St Peter’s Basilica on Holy Thursday, Pope Leo XIV called on priests, bishops and all Christians to bring hope and peace to places marked by suffering and death, urging them to trust in God and remain united in their mission.
Presiding over the liturgy with hundreds of clergy, Pope led priests in renewing the promises they made at their ordination. In his first Chrism Mass homily as Bishop of Rome, he reflected on the shared mission of all Christians, saying it is the same mission entrusted to Jesus.
He reminded the faithful that this mission is lived personally through obedience to the Holy Spirit, but never in isolation. Christians, he said, are always called to remain in communion with one another.
Looking ahead to the Easter Triduum, Pope Leo said this sacred time has the power to transform hearts, heal wounds and bring reconciliation. He encouraged believers to allow this grace to shape their lives.
Pope highlighted three key aspects of the Christian mission, namely detachment, encounter and the experience of rejection. He explained that serving others often requires letting go of comfort and familiarity in order to embrace new paths.
He said true peace and joy come with risk and openness, adding that letting go of what we hold onto can lead to unexpected blessings. He also noted that mission requires coming to terms with one’s past, including both strengths and limitations.
Speaking about encounter, the Pope warned against the misuse of power in both Church and society. He said real mission is not about domination but about humble service, dialogue and respect for others.
He pointed to the example of missionaries who have quietly shared their lives with others, showing that the Gospel is best communicated through love and selfless service rather than strategies or control.
Pope Leo also reminded priests that the Holy Spirit is at work in their ministry, guiding them and helping them to recognize Christ in the people they serve. He encouraged them to approach others with simplicity and respect, acknowledging the mystery present in every person and community.
He added that Christians are always guests wherever they go and must find meaningful ways to share the Gospel, especially in societies where faith is declining.
Reflecting on rejection, Pope said this is one of the most challenging parts of the Christian mission. He explained that accepting the cross can lead to true transformation, both personally and in society.
Even in moments of failure or weakness, he said, Christians should trust in God’s grace, drawing strength from the example of the saints who remained faithful in difficult times.
In conclusion, Pope Leo urged the faithful to overcome fear and discouragement. He called on them to renew their commitment to their mission and to become signs of unity and peace in a troubled world.
He said that even in the darkness of the present time, God sends his people to bring the presence of Christ wherever suffering and despair are found.