Vatican City: Pope Leo XIV has called forgiveness essential for living in peace, saying it can overcome hatred, resentment and division and help restore broken relationships.
Speaking during the Angelus in St Peter’s Square on Sunday, September 13, the Pope said conflicts, accusations, grudges and acts of vengeance can damage relationships, divide families and lead to violence and war.
He urged Christians to forgive others as Christ has forgiven them, even when taking the first step is difficult. He said forgiveness can bring healing and help people move beyond hatred and resentment.
Pope’s reflection was based on the Sunday Gospel from Matthew, in which Peter asks Jesus how many times he should forgive someone who sins against him. Jesus responds that forgiveness should go far beyond seven times.
Pope Leo explained that the number seven represents fullness in the Bible. Jesus’ teaching therefore calls Christians to forgive without limits or measure. He described forgiveness as a fundamental part of Christian life.
The Gospel also tells the story of a servant whose enormous debt is forgiven by his master. However, the servant refuses to show similar mercy to another servant who owes him a much smaller amount. The Pope said the parable reminds Christians that God gives everything out of love and that people should extend the same generosity and forgiveness to others.
He said this spirit of giving freely is not only the basis of human existence but also an important way of living together in harmony and freeing ourselves from burdens that weigh us down.
Pope Leo also referred to the experience of Peter, who had denied knowing Jesus during the Passion despite being one of his closest disciples. After the Resurrection, Jesus asked Peter whether he loved him and again called him to follow.
Pope said this encounter showed the power of Christ’s forgiving and healing love. Peter’s failure did not prevent him from receiving a renewed mission.
At the end of his message, Pope Leo invited the faithful to ask the Virgin Mary, Mother of Mercy, for help in forgiving others and spreading the healing light of love that can overcome hatred and resentment.