Pope Leo XIV began his first homily as the Bishop of Rome at the Basilica of St. John Lateran on Sunday, emphasizing the importance of listening and communion in building the church.
The pontiff referenced the Council of Jerusalem, where early Christians debated whether Gentile converts had to follow the law of Moses. He noted that “listening to God’s voice” was crucial in making decisions and finding a way forward.
Pope Leo XIV highlighted the importance of listening to each other as brothers and sisters in Christ, saying “For only in this way can we hear within the voice of the Spirit crying out ‘Abba! Father!’ and then, as a result, listen to and understand others.”
He also emphasized that the church’s mission is to be “mother of all the Churches,” and that this comes with great responsibility. The pope praised the diocese for its efforts in listening to the world and within their communities, and highlighted the importance of tenderness, self-sacrifice, and listening in serving others.
During the homily, Pope Leo XIV received a pledge of fidelity from representatives of the people of God in Rome, marking a symbol of communion. The event was attended by various clergy and laypeople, including cardinals and religious leaders, who came to show their support for the new bishop.
The pope concluded his homily by expressing his desire to serve as a shepherd to his flock, and asking for their support and prayers. He also reflected on the legacy of Blessed John Paul I, who took possession of the chair of the Bishop of Rome in 1978, and looked forward to sharing joys and sorrows with the faithful on his journey together.
Source: https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/264341/pope-leo-xiv-delivers-first-homily-as-bishop-of-rome-at-the-basilica-of-st-john-lateran