Over 70,000 pilgrims from more than 100 countries gathered in St. Peter’s Square on Saturday evening for the Pentecost Vigil, a highlight of the Jubilee for Ecclesial Movements, Associations, and New Communities.
Pope Leo led the Liturgy of the Word following a pre-Vigil celebration filled with songs, prayers, and witness testimonies. In his homily, he emphasized the theme of unity as a gift of the Holy Spirit, calling St. Peter’s Square “a magnificent expression of the Church’s communion.”
Reflecting on synodality, the Pope described it as a journey rooted in the Trinity, drawing us to walk with all of humanity. “The Spirit leads us away from violence and division and teaches us to live as pilgrims, not predators—no longer each for themselves, but together as one,” he said.
He reminded the faithful that God’s intention is for all people to live in unity, and the Church’s synodal path reflects this divine purpose.
On evangelization, Pope Leo clarified that it is not about power or strategy, but the “grace that radiates from lives transformed by the Kingdom of God.” He encouraged the movements to remain close to their local churches and parishes, stressing collaboration with bishops and the wider church community.
“When we obey the Holy Spirit together,” the Pope said, “the challenges of our time will be less frightening, the future will seem brighter, and discernment will be clearer.”
Radio Veritas Asia (RVA), a media platform of the Catholic Church, aims to share Christ. RVA started in 1969 as a continental Catholic radio station to serve Asian countries in their respective local language, thus earning the tag “the Voice of Asian Christianity.” Responding to the emerging context, RVA embraced media platforms to connect with the global Asian audience via its 21 language websites and various social media platforms.
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