During the Angelus following the canonization Mass, Pope Francis renewed his appeal for countries suffering from war and highlighted the significance of Saint Joseph Allamano in caring for vulnerable populations. He also urged action against any form of exploitation of their dignity and territories.
“Let us continue to pray for the peoples suffering due to war: the martyrs of Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, Ukraine, Sudan, Myanmar, and many others. Let us invoke the gift of peace for all.”
In his Angelus address, Pope Francis reiterated the need for prayer for nations at war and greeted the faithful who came to honor the newly canonized saints, particularly the Maronite faithful and the missionaries of Consolata, an institution founded by Saint Joseph Allamano in 1901 and 1910. He also acknowledged the presence of Italian President Sergio Mattarella and a significant Ugandan delegation attending the 60th anniversary of the canonization of the Ugandan martyrs.
A Call to Protect the Vulnerable
Pope Francis emphasized the necessity of caring for the most fragile and vulnerable populations, referencing the Yanomami people from the Amazon rainforest, who are linked to the miracle associated with today’s canonization:
“I call on political and civil authorities to ensure the protection of these peoples and their fundamental rights and to combat any form of exploitation of their dignity and territories.”
The Evangelical Mission of Every Christian
In the context of World Mission Day, themed “Go and invite everyone to the banquet,” the Pope stressed that evangelization is a “festive encounter with the Lord who loves us and wants us to share in His joyful communion.” He noted that, as taught by the new saints, every Christian is called to participate in this universal mission through their evangelical witness in every environment.
“Let us support, through our prayers and assistance, all missionaries who, often at great personal sacrifice, bring the radiant message of the Gospel to all corners of the earth.”
At the end of the prayer, the Pope traversed St. Peter’s Square in the Popemobile, greeting the faithful present.
