Pope Leo XIV recalls St. Francis of Assisi

Pope Leo XIV honored St. Francis of Assisi during the Sunday Angelus, describing the saint as a great worker in the Lord's vineyard. Speaking at St. Peter's Square on the 800th anniversary of the saint's death, the Pope noted that Francis repaired the Church through faith, prayer, and fraternal love rather than through reorganization or specific programs.

Reflecting on the Gospel parable of the wicked tenants, the Pope explained that the Church is the vineyard that people can either build up or damage through their choices. He stated that Francis, inspired by the Crucified, built his own life on the foundation of Christ by sharing in his poverty and suffering. This witness helped heal rifts of discord and served as a condition for reforming the Church.

During the Franciscan jubilee year, Pope Leo XIV urged the faithful to pray for peace and to commit to building harmony among nations. He also encouraged trust in God's mercy, stating that God can transform evil into redemption and never discards human life.