In St. Peter’s Basilica, the traditional prayer of thanksgiving marked the end of the year with the First Vespers to Mary Most Holy Mother of God. Pope Francis presided over this ceremony, accompanied by 36 cardinals, 22 bishops, and 40 priests, with the notable presence of the Mayor of Rome, Roberto Gualtieri.

During his homily, Pope Francis reflected on the challenges and numerous infrastructural projects undertaken in Rome in preparation for the Jubilee. Despite these demands, the Pontiff expressed his hope that these improvements would create a welcoming environment for all pilgrims of hope, regardless of their background, and that “what is not human” would be transformed into a desire for fraternity.

A Call to Fraternity and Hospitality

The Pope emphasized the importance of dignified work and its intrinsic value. He reiterated his message of welcoming everyone, offering his gratitude to God for enabling such efforts in the city:

“Rome is called to welcome everyone so that all may recognize themselves as children of God and brothers and sisters to each other.”

Francis mentioned the encyclical Fratelli tutti, highlighting universal fraternity as key to the Holy Year. He noted that Rome has become a significant construction project with the aim of welcoming people from all over the world, including Catholics, Christians of other denominations, believers of various religions, and seekers of truth, justice, and peace.

Gratitude and Hope

Departing from his prepared text, Pope Francis extended special thanks to the Mayor of Rome and all the workers who contributed to the city’s development:

“We admire with gratitude the results of the works carried out in the city and thank the many men and women who made it possible, and the Mayor for leading this effort.”

The Pontiff also invoked the help of Mary, encouraging everyone to look within themselves to foster conversion and commitment to fraternity. He stressed that the hope for a fraternal world is not an ideology or an economic system but is grounded in Christ, the incarnate Son. He concluded by asking for forgiveness for sins and supplicating the Lord to grant the strength to continue our pilgrimage in the coming year:

“The hope for a fraternal world is not an ideology, it is not an economic system, it is not technological progress. The hope for a fraternal world is Him, the incarnate Son.”

With these words, Pope Francis closed the ceremony, renewing the hope and commitment to a more fraternal and welcoming future.