Pope Francis, in the Angelus of the Fourth Sunday of Lent, March 30, 2025, reflected on the parable of the prodigal son and highlighted God’s infinite mercy. He also called for peace in various regions of the world and expressed his concern for situations of conflict and humanitarian crises.

God’s Mercy and the Parable of the Prodigal Son

In today’s Gospel (Luke 15:1-3, 11-32), Jesus observes that the Pharisees, instead of rejoicing because sinners draw near to him, are scandalized and murmur behind their backs. Jesus then tells them the story of a father who has two sons: one leaves home, but then, when he finds himself in poverty, returns and is welcomed with joy; the other, the “obedient” son, indignant with his father, does not want to enter the feast. Thus, Jesus reveals the heart of God: always merciful to all; he heals our wounds so that we may love one another as brothers and sisters.

Lent as a Time of Healing

The Holy Father invited us to live Lent, especially in this Jubilee Year, as a time of healing. He shared that he is experiencing this period of healing in soul and body. He expressed his gratitude to those who, in the image of the Savior, are instruments of healing for their neighbors through their word, knowledge, affection, and prayer. Likewise, he recalled that fragility and illness are experiences common to all, but that, with greater reason, we are brothers and sisters in the salvation that Christ has given us.

Call for Peace and Attention to International Crises

Trusting in the mercy of God the Father, Pope Francis urged us to continue praying for peace in various regions affected by conflict and suffering, specifically mentioning Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Myanmar, which is also suffering from an earthquake.​

He expressed his concern about the situation in South Sudan, renewing his urgent call to leaders to do everything possible to reduce tension in the country. He stressed the need to put aside differences and, with courage and responsibility, engage in constructive dialogue to alleviate the suffering of the beloved South Sudanese people and build a future of peace and stability.

Furthermore, he also noted that the war in Sudan continues to claim innocent victims. Likewise, he urged the parties to the conflict to prioritize the protection of the lives of their fellow civilians and expressed his hope that new negotiations will begin as soon as possible to guarantee a lasting solution to the crisis. He called on the international community to redouble its efforts to confront the terrible humanitarian catastrophe.

Signs of hope in international diplomacy

The Pope also highlighted positive developments in the international arena, such as the ratification of the agreement on the delimitation of the border between Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan, calling it an excellent diplomatic outcome. He encouraged both countries to continue on this path of understanding and cooperation.

He concluded his message by invoking Mary, Mother of Mercy, to help the human family reconcile in peace.