In St. Peter’s Basilica, the traditional prayer of thanksgiving was held, concluding 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 the numerous infrastructural works that have been carried out in Rome in preparation for the Jubilee. Despite these demands, the Pontiff expressed his hope that these improvements would serve to create a welcoming environment for all pilgrims of hope, regardless of their origin, and that “what is not human” would be transformed into a desire for fraternity.

A call to fraternity and welcome

The Pope stressed the importance of dignified work and its intrinsic value. He reiterated his message of welcoming everyone, raising his gratitude to God for allowing so much effort in the city:

“Rome is called to welcome everyone so that everyone can recognize themselves as children of God and brothers and sisters among themselves.”

Francis mentioned the Encyclical Fratelli tutti, highlighting universal fraternity as key to the Holy Year. He considered that Rome has become a great construction site with the purpose of welcoming people from all over the world, including Catholics, Christians of other confessions, believers of various religions and seekers of truth, justice and peace.

Gratitude and hope

Departing from the prepared text, Pope Francis especially thanked the Mayor of Rome and all the workers who have contributed to the development of the city:

“We admire with gratitude the results of the works carried out in the city, and we thank the work of so many men and women who have made it possible, and the Lord Mayor for carrying out this work.”

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 of a fraternal world is not an ideology or an economic system, but is based on Christ, the incarnate Son. He concluded by asking forgiveness for sins and imploring the Lord to grant us the strength to advance on our pilgrimage next year:

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

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