Pope Leo XIV led the Angelus prayer in Castel Gandolfo, reflecting on how to achieve eternal life. The Pope emphasized that eternal life is inherited, not earned, and is a gift from God. He stated that fulfilling God's will, which involves loving God and neighbor, is essential. Pope Leo XIV encouraged Christians to emulate Jesus's love, which is generous and forgiving. The Pope highlighted the importance of caring for others, just as God cares for humanity.
5 months ago
On July 13, 2025, Pope Leo XIV delivered his first Angelus address from the Pontifical Villa of Castel Gandolfo, continuing a papal tradition of summer breaks at the residence 1 2 3. Addressing thousands of pilgrims, the Pope reflected on the Gospel question, "Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?" 1 2 3.
Pope Leo XIV emphasized that eternal life is not something to be gained by force, begged for, or negotiated, but rather it is an inheritance, a gift bestowed by God, much like parents pass on an inheritance to their children 1 2 3. This concept addresses humanity's deep yearning for salvation and an existence free from failure, evil, and death 1 3.
To receive this divine gift, Jesus teaches that one must do God's will, which is encapsulated in the dual commandment to love God with all one's heart and to love one's neighbor as oneself 1 2 3. Pope Leo XIV highlighted that this "supreme law" of loving God and neighbor precedes and gives meaning to all of society's rules 1 2 3. He stressed that God's will is a law of life, exemplified by the Father's unconditional love for humanity through His Son, Jesus 1 2.
The Pope urged Christians to look to Jesus as the embodiment of authentic love—a love that is generous, forgiving, and expansive, always reaching out and never abandoning others 1 2 3. Just as God became a neighbor to humanity in Christ, so too are individuals called to become neighbors to everyone they encounter 1 2 3. This involves serving life by caring for others, especially those experiencing discouragement and disappointment, thereby bringing them consolation and hope 1 2 3.
By opening one's heart to God's saving will and serving life through care for others, individuals can become "artisans of peace" in their daily lives 1 2 3. Pope Leo XIV's address underscored that gaining eternal life is not about "cheating death," but about actively serving and caring for life in the present moment 1 3.
How does one attain eternal life through love?
The Catholic understanding of attaining eternal life through love is deeply rooted in the nature of God as love and the call for humanity to participate in that divine love. Eternal life is not merely an endless existence but a full participation in the life of God, which is characterized by knowledge and love of Him .
God's Love as the Source of Eternal Life: God's immense love for the world is the ultimate origin of eternal life. He "so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life" (John 3:16) . This gift of eternal life is communicated in its fullness by Jesus through His Paschal Mystery and the Holy Spirit, allowing believers to share in His definitive victory over death . The Cross, seemingly a sign of condemnation, becomes a sign of redemption, life, and victory through faith, revealing the immense love of God and the total gift of His Only-Begotten Son .
Love as a Path to Eternal Life: While faith is a primary means of attaining eternal life, as "He that believes in the Son has eternal life" (John 3:36) , love is intrinsically linked to this journey. The sacred Scriptures suggest various ways to gain eternal life, including:
The Dignity of Life and its Divine Dimensions: The dignity of human life is linked not only to its origin from God but also to its ultimate destiny of fellowship with God in knowledge and love . While humans instinctively love life, this love gains deeper inspiration and strength from the divine dimensions of this good . Life becomes a "place" where God manifests Himself, where we meet Him and enter into communion with Him . The life Jesus gives does not diminish the value of our earthly existence but directs it towards its final destiny: "I am the resurrection and the life... whoever lives and believes in me shall never die" (John 11:25-26) .
Conclusion: Attaining eternal life through love is a journey of participating in God's own loving nature. It involves knowing God and His Son, living according to His commandments, serving Him through acts of charity, and prioritizing Him above all else. This path, rooted in faith in Jesus Christ, allows human life in its earthly state to already begin to experience and grow in eternal life, ultimately leading to a full and joyous communion with God .