Inspired by divine ardor, Pope declares during Mass and meal with the impoverished

Pope Leo XIV Celebrates Mass with the Poor at Shrine of Santa Maria della Rotonda

In a heartwarming display of compassion and unity, Pope Leo XIV recently celebrated Mass at the historic Shrine of Santa Maria della Rotonda in Albano Laziale, Italy. The event, which marked the Pope's first 100 days in office, brought together approximately 110 clients and volunteers of the Diocese of Albano's Caritas programs.

The Shrine, built in the round on the site of a first-century pagan temple, is known for its welcoming atmosphere. From the outside, it may appear rigid, but its divine reality is revealed when people cross its threshold. The shape of the Shrine, reminiscent of a mother's womb, creates a sense of warmth and inclusivity.

The day's Gospel reading was from Luke 12:49-53, a passage that speaks of Jesus coming to set the earth on fire. However, Pope Leo XIV interpreted this fire not as the fire of weapons or words, but the fire of love. He emphasised that this fire stoopes to serve, responds to indifference with care, and to arrogance with gentleness.

In his homily, the Pope highlighted the importance of service within the church. Whether seeking assistance or providing it, he said, in the church "each person is a gift for others." He also praised the efforts of Catholics around the world who work to facilitate encounters between people of different origins and circumstances.

Before blessing the food, Pope Leo thanked these individuals and prayed that Catholics would make sure their parishes are welcoming of all people and would be "on fire" with God's love. He also prayed that Catholics would allow Jesus' fire to burn away prejudices, caution, and fears that marginalize the poor.

Following the Mass, the Pope returned to Castel Gandolfo to lead the recitation of the Angelus prayer and then to host lunch for the Caritas clients and some of the volunteers. The lunch was held in the Borgo Laudato Si', a project for education and training in integral ecology begun by Pope Francis in the gardens of the papal summer villa.

The lunch was a beautiful way to celebrate Pope Leo's first 100 days in office, according to Cardinal Fabio Baggio, director general of Borgo Laudato Si'. Present at the opening of Borgo Laudato Si' in Castel Gandolfo were people from Castel Gandolfo and surrounding areas, international interest groups, benefactors, and ecclesiastical dignitaries.

During the lunch, Pope Leo was seated at a round table with Rosabal Leon, a migrant from Peru, and Gabriella Oliveiro, 85, who lives by herself on the outskirts of Rome. This symbolic seating arrangement underscored the Pope's commitment to fostering a sense of community and inclusivity.

In his address, the Pope emphasised the importance of Mary, the mother of Jesus, as a sign and foretaste of God's maternity. He stated that in her, we become a motherly church, one that generates and regenerates not by worldly power, but by the virtue of charity.

In this way, Pope Leo XIV's visit to the Shrine of Santa Maria della Rotonda and his interactions with the poor served as a powerful reminder of the church's mission to serve and uplift all people, regardless of their circumstances.

Inspired by divine ardor, Pope declares during Mass and meal with the impoverished