Pope Francis Homilies: Easter & Beyond | Latest Updates
Does the dawn of a new Easter always illuminate the shadows of our doubt, or does the light of faith still struggle to penetrate the lingering darkness? The unwavering message of the Easter narratives, from the first discovery of the empty tomb to the fervent pursuit of the risen Christ, consistently calls us to action: to seek, to believe, and to share the transformative power of hope.
In the heart of Saint Peter's Square, on Easter Sunday, April 20, 2025, Cardinal Angelo Comastri, delivered the homily prepared by Pope Francis. The echo of the words, resonant with the themes of resurrection and renewal, encouraged all present to emulate the early disciples, to hasten towards the risen Lord, and to embrace the gift of hope as a guiding light on life's journey. Mary Magdalene, witnessing the stone removed from the tomb, became the first herald of this momentous news. She ran to Peter and John, setting in motion a chain reaction of faith and urgency. The Gospel tells us that "the two were running together" (Jn 20:4), underscoring the shared eagerness and commitment inherent in the pursuit of faith.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jorge Mario Bergoglio (Pope Francis) |
| Born | December 17, 1936, Buenos Aires, Argentina |
| Nationality | Argentine |
| Religious Order | Society of Jesus (Jesuits) |
| Ordained a Priest | December 13, 1969 |
| Ordained a Bishop | June 28, 1992 |
| Archbishop of Buenos Aires | 1998 - 2013 |
| Elected Pope | March 13, 2013 |
| Notable For | Emphasis on mercy, social justice, and environmental concerns; First Jesuit Pope; First Pope from the Americas. |
| Key Beliefs | Focus on the poor and marginalized; Dialogue with other faiths; Reform of the Vatican. |
| Quote | "The Lord never tires of forgiving: it is we who tire of asking for forgiveness." |
| Reference Website | Vatican Website |
The events of Easter, however, extend far beyond the immediate moments of discovery. As the world observed the 2024 Easter Vigil, the text of Pope Franciss homily delivered at the Vatican painted a vivid contrast. The women who approached the tomb at daybreak still grappled with the shadows of night, representing the persistent human struggle with doubt and despair. This reminds us that faith often emerges from the depths of uncertainty.
His final public appearance was marked by a wish to the gathered crowd of more than 20,000 a happy Easter, and a call to action, a reminder of the core message of the resurrection.
In these moments of contemplation, we are reminded that faith, at its essence, is not just belief but also a profound, personal experience of the risen Lord. This, as was observed by those close to him, was the driving force behind the papacy of Pope Francis. As Cardinal Comastri explained, Pope Francis not only held the belief in the resurrection but also shared a deep, palpable connection with it. He was deeply in touch with the risen Lord, emphasizing the ongoing and transformative nature of faith.
On the Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time, February 16, 2025, the Basilica of Saint Peter witnessed another significant moment of reflection. Cardinal Jos Tolentino de Mendona read the homily of Pope Francis, offering guidance and introspection. The readings and reflections, echoing throughout the Basilica, reminded listeners that the pursuit of faith should be a continuous act.
Pope Francis's Holy Mass at Santa Marta (Domus Sanctae Marthae) on December 19, 2019, during the third week of Advent, offered a different perspective on the liturgical calendar. The homily, in its simplicity, illuminated the human condition. In those moments, he reminds us to look beyond the present to find the hope within, while maintaining a connection with others.
The Ash Wednesday mass at the Basilica of Santa Sabina in Rome, March 5, 2025, offered a moment of solemnity and introspection. Cardinal Angelo De Donatis, head of the Apostolic Penitentiary, read the homily prepared by Pope Francis. Although the Pope was hospitalized, the message of Ash Wednesday persevered, encouraging the faithful to engage in self-reflection and penance as part of their Lenten journey. The liturgy continued.
Even in the midst of challenging times, the celebration of Vespers and the Te Deum on December 31, 2022, offered an opportunity to give thanks for the year that had passed. The remembrance of Pope John Paul I on September 4, 2022, added another layer of reflection, reminding the faithful of the enduring legacy of past leaders and the importance of carrying forth their messages.
The Holy Thursday service at Saint Peter's Basilica on March 28, 2013, still carries weight as it reminds us of the essential message of Jesus's sacrifice.
On the first Sunday after Christmas, the liturgy invites us to celebrate the Feast of the Holy Family of Nazareth. Every Nativity scene displays Jesus alongside Mary and Joseph in the grotto of Bethlehem. The scene represents family, the most basic unit of society, and the importance of love and support in the most trying of times.
On June 14, Pope Francis delivered the Corpus Christi homily at the Basilica of St. Peter. In the heart of the Vatican, the Pope's words reminded the audience to remember the Lord's guidance in their lives (Deut 8:2). The homily serves to remind us to reflect and recognize His omnipresence.
On Thursday, September 5, 2024, at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium in Jakarta, Indonesia, a significant event unfolded. The occasion, a testament to the global reach of faith and the Pope's dedication to connecting with communities worldwide, left a lasting impression, demonstrating the importance of community, charity, and togetherness in faith.
Another Holy Thursday homily, delivered on April 9 at the Basilica of St. Peter, provided a reflective and transformative experience. It provided a reminder of the importance of the Holy Week and offered a guide to those in attendance.
On June 29, 2021, the solemnity of Sts. Peter and Paul brought the faithful together in the Basilica of St. Peter. Pope Francis's homily on this day paid homage to the two pillars of the Christian faith. They were a symbol of faith, and a reminder of how the faith, when combined, becomes stronger.
The solemnity of Saint Joseph at Saint Peter's Square on Tuesday, March 19, 2013, marked another important day. The solemnity reminded listeners of the importance of St. Joseph as the earthly father of Jesus.
The Gospel of Luke presents Jesus in the synagogue in Nazareth, the town where he grew up. He reads the passage from the prophet Isaiah, announcing the Messiah's mission. The reminder of this event, and the message within, brings us to our current day and continues to provide guidance.
