Pope Leo XIV marked the Second Sunday of Advent with the Angelus in St Peter’s Square, reflecting on the Gospel message announcing “the coming of the Kingdom of God” (Mt 3:1-12). He recalled John the Baptist’s call: “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near!” and connected it to the daily prayer, “Thy kingdom come,” which turns believers toward “the new thing that God has in store for us.”
The Pope said John’s severe tone resonated because people recognised “God’s plea to take life seriously,” yet even the Baptist would be surprised by how God’s Kingdom appears in Christ — “in meekness and in mercy.” Citing Isaiah’s image of a shoot emerging from a dead stump, he said the Spirit “begins gently to blow its gifts” (Is 11:1-10), reminding the faithful that “nothing is impossible to God.”
He linked this to the Second Vatican Council, closed 60 years ago, describing it as a renewed experience of journeying together. The Pope urged preparation for Christ’s coming, saying, “The little child, Jesus of Nazareth, will lead us,” and invited the faithful to become “a little light” by welcoming Him.
After the Angelus, he reflected on his recent journey to Türkiye and Lebanon, expressing gratitude for ecumenical encounters, testimonies of charity, and the resilience of communities he visited. He affirmed that “peace is possible” and appealed for solidarity with populations in South and Southeast Asia affected by natural disasters. He concluded by greeting pilgrims and wishing all “a blessed Advent journey.”
🇲🇹 For the latest updates and stories from across Malta, follow News of Malta.
