On April 20, 2025, Pope Francis delivered the traditional Urbi et Orbi blessing from the loggia of St. Peter's Basilica, marking a significant moment in the Easter celebrations. The pontiff, who appeared before thousands of faithful gathered in St. Peter's Square, was greeted with applause as he stepped out to deliver his message. Due to health challenges, he struggled to convey his Easter greetings, and Monsignor Ravelli, the master of ceremonies, read the Pope's message on his behalf.
During the Easter Mass, also held on the same day, Cardinal Angelo Comastri presided over the liturgy in the Pope's absence. Approximately 35,000 faithful participated in the celebrations, which took place under a clear spring sky. Notable attendees included Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković and a delegation from the Netherlands, highlighting the global significance of the event.
The parvis of St. Peter's Basilica was beautifully adorned with flowers and plants, creating a vibrant atmosphere for the Holy Week festivities. This year was particularly special as Christians from both the Eastern and Western traditions celebrated Easter on the same day, allowing for a unique proclamation of the Gospel in both Greek and Latin. The liturgy also featured traditional Byzantine Easter hymns, which were once sung before the Pope on this holy occasion.
In his homily, delivered by Cardinal Comastri, Pope Francis emphasized the importance of hope in the resurrection of Christ. He urged the faithful to believe in the "greatest hope of our lives," which is to cling to Christ, who has triumphed over death. The Pope's message resonated deeply, as he encouraged everyone to entrust their sufferings and worries to God, reminding them that Jesus desires to renew their lives.
"We cannot park our hearts in the illusions of this world or lock them in sadness; we must run towards Jesus, rediscovering the invaluable grace of being his friends," the Pope's message conveyed. He highlighted that the Easter celebration is not just a static event but a call to action, urging each person to seek Jesus actively.
The Pope's words were particularly poignant as he reflected on the Gospel of John, where Mary Magdalene and the disciples discover the empty tomb. He noted that to find the risen Christ, one must be in motion and actively seek Him. "The protagonists of the Easter stories all run," he pointed out, illustrating the inner desire and motivation that drives believers to search for Jesus.
Pope Francis also stressed the significance of recognizing that Christ is not merely a historical figure or a statue confined to a museum. "He is alive and remains with us, sharing in the sorrows of those who suffer and multiplying the beauty of life through small acts of love," he stated, reinforcing the idea that faith should be dynamic and relevant in everyday life.
The joyful atmosphere of the Easter celebrations was palpable as the faithful gathered to witness the Pope's blessing. The Urbi et Orbi message, which translates to "to the city and to the world," is a tradition that highlights the Pope's role as a spiritual leader, offering blessings and prayers for peace and goodwill across the globe.
This year's Easter celebrations also came at a time when many around the world are yearning for hope and renewal. The Pope's call to action encourages individuals to reflect on their faith and to seek deeper connections with Christ and with one another. As the world continues to navigate challenges, the message of Easter remains a beacon of hope, inviting all to embrace the transformative power of faith.
As the celebrations concluded, the faithful left St. Peter's Square with a renewed sense of purpose and hope, inspired by the Pope's message and the spirit of Easter. The event served as a reminder of the importance of community and faith in overcoming life's challenges, as well as the enduring promise of resurrection and renewal.
Pope Francis's Easter message and the Urbi et Orbi blessing encapsulated the essence of the season: a call to hope, action, and a deeper relationship with Christ. As believers carry this message into their daily lives, they are encouraged to embody the love and grace that Easter represents, fostering a spirit of compassion and kindness in a world that often feels divided.
