On Saturday, April 19, 2025, Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re presided over the Easter Vigil in the Vatican Basilica, delegated by Pope Francis. In his homily, Cardinal Re read the words of Pope Francis, emphasizing the quiet yet profound impact of the Resurrection. "The light of the Resurrection illuminates the path step by step, breaking into the darkness of history without fanfare, shining discreetly in our hearts," he stated. The homily conveyed that the Resurrection is not a spectacle but rather small sprouts of light that emerge gradually, often threatened by doubt and darkness.
Cardinal Re highlighted that God frees humanity from abstract religiosity, reminding the faithful that true celebration of Easter requires confronting the inner darkness and the shadows of death that linger in the world. He pointed out that while Christ has conquered sin and death, the power of His Resurrection is still unfolding in human history. "This fulfillment, like a small sprout of light, is entrusted to us to nurture and grow," he urged.
As the Easter celebrations continued, Pope Francis, despite his ongoing health issues, delivered the traditional Urbi et Orbi blessing on April 20, 2025. Appearing at the Loggia of the Blessings, he was greeted by approximately 35,000 people gathered in St. Peter's Square. "Dear brothers and sisters, Happy Easter!" he exclaimed before handing over the reading of his Easter message to Monsignor Diego Ravelli.
In his Easter message, Pope Francis reflected on the triumph of truth over lies, forgiveness over revenge, and light over darkness. He acknowledged the many conflicts plaguing the world, including violence in families, against women, and children. "How much violence and conflict, let’s go back to hoping and trusting each other," he implored, urging the faithful to have faith in others, even those who are different or come from distant lands, because we are all children of God.
The Pope's message also addressed the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where ongoing violence has led to suffering and destruction. He called for an immediate ceasefire and humanitarian aid, emphasizing the need for peace in Israel and Palestine. "I am close to the suffering of Christians in Palestine and Israel and all the people of Israel and Palestine," he said, highlighting the importance of dialogue and understanding.
Furthermore, Pope Francis's concerns extended to the humanitarian crises in Yemen, Syria, and various African nations. He stressed that no peace is possible without religious freedom and disarmament, stating, "We must increase our solidarity and fight hunger as weapons of peace." He condemned the arms race and called for a world built on cooperation and mutual care.
During the Easter Mass, celebrated by Cardinal Angelo Comastri in St. Peter’s Square, the central message of Easter was reiterated: Christ is risen and alive! The homily, read by Cardinal Comastri, emphasized the need for Christians to actively seek Jesus in their lives and in the faces of others, not just in the sepulcher. "We must hurry to seek Him in life, in the daily encounters, and in the simplest situations," the Cardinal said.
Pope Francis, who had delegated the Mass due to health concerns, still made a surprise visit to St. Peter’s Basilica the day before Easter. Despite his physical limitations, he interacted warmly with visitors, embodying the spirit of Easter. His presence, though limited, resonated with the faithful who came to celebrate the Resurrection.
The Easter Vigil, a significant liturgical moment, included ancient rituals symbolizing Christ's resurrection. The celebration began in darkness, with the blessing of the new fire and the preparation of the Paschal candle, followed by a procession and the reading of significant biblical passages. This year, three adults were baptized during the liturgy, signifying new life and hope.
As Pope Francis concluded his Urbi et Orbi message, he reminded the world that Easter is a time of renewal and hope. "The Resurrection is not merely a return to a previous life but a complete transformation into eternal life with God," he declared. He called upon the faithful to be messengers of hope, builders of peace, and to nurture the sprouts of light that can overcome the darkness in the world.
In this spirit, Pope Francis urged everyone to reflect on their lives and the lives of others, to be a presence of hope for those who have lost faith, for the oppressed, and for those suffering from the burdens of life. "We are called to live this hope and to share it with others," he concluded, inviting all to participate in the joy of the Resurrection.
As the celebrations unfolded, the message of Easter became clear: it is a call to action, a reminder that the light of Christ continues to shine in the world, guiding believers to seek Him in every aspect of life, fostering hope and peace amidst the trials of existence.
