Pope Leo XIV delivered an Angelus address at St. Peter's. The Pope emphasized the importance of mercy in daily life. He called for vigilance against temptations and evil. The Pope encouraged the faithful to seek God's grace.
4 months ago
On August 10, 2025, Pope Leo XIV delivered his Sunday Angelus address at St. Peter's, urging the faithful to reflect on how they "invest the treasure" of their lives 1 2. The pontiff emphasized that generosity and love are essential for fulfillment, stressing that these gifts must be cultivated and used for the benefit of others, rather than being hoarded 2.
Drawing from the Gospel reading of Luke 12:32-48, Pope Leo XIV highlighted Jesus' exhortation to "Sell your possessions and give alms" 2. He clarified that this invitation extends beyond mere charitable donations, encouraging the faithful to offer their presence, love, and talents to those in need 2. The Pope warned that personal gifts, which are priceless and unrepeatable in God's plan, will "dry up and diminish in value" if not cultivated and invested 2.
Pope Leo XIV reinforced his message by quoting St. Augustine, who stated that "What you give will certainly be transformed…it isn’t gold, it isn’t silver, but eternal life that will come your way" 2. He also referenced St. John Paul II, underscoring the spiritual transformation that results from acts of mercy 2. The Pope described works of mercy as "the most secure and profitable bank" for believers to place their life's treasures, citing the example of the poor widow from Mark's Gospel 2.
Beyond generosity, Pope Leo XIV stressed the significance of vigilance in everyday life 2. He encouraged everyone to "grow in the habit of being attentive, ready, and sensitive to one another" in various settings, including home, parish, school, and workplace 2. The Pope concluded by invoking Mary, the Morning Star, as a guide for the Church's mission to promote mercy and peace in a world marked by divisions 2.
What is the Church's teaching on mercy?
The Catholic Church teaches that mercy is a fundamental attribute of God and a central theme of Christian life. It is understood as a compassionate love that goes beyond justice, offering forgiveness, healing, and restoration.
God's mercy is revealed throughout salvation history, particularly in the person of Jesus Christ. The Old Testament frequently speaks of God's hesed (steadfast love, mercy, and faithfulness) and rahamim (compassion, tender mercy), which are manifested in His covenant with Israel, His deliverance of His people, and His forgiveness of their sins. In the New Testament, Jesus embodies divine mercy through His teachings, miracles, and ultimately, His Passion, Death, and Resurrection. His parables, such as the Prodigal Son and the Good Samaritan, vividly illustrate God's boundless compassion and willingness to forgive.
The Church calls believers to imitate God's mercy in their own lives. This call is rooted in the Gospel command to "be merciful, just as your Father is merciful" (Luke 6:36). Practicing mercy involves both spiritual and corporal works of mercy:
Corporal Works of Mercy :
Spiritual Works of Mercy :
Mercy does not negate justice but rather perfects it. While justice gives what is due, mercy gives more than what is due, offering grace and forgiveness. The Church teaches that true justice is always tempered by mercy, and mercy, in turn, leads to a deeper understanding and fulfillment of justice.
The Sacraments of Penance and Reconciliation and the Anointing of the Sick are particularly highlighted as sacraments of healing and mercy. In the Sacrament of Penance, individuals receive God's forgiveness for their sins, are reconciled with the Church, and are strengthened to live a more virtuous life. The Anointing of the Sick offers spiritual comfort, strength, and sometimes physical healing to those who are ill or elderly.
The Church itself is called to be an instrument of mercy in the world, reflecting God's compassion to all people. Through its teachings, sacraments, and charitable works, the Church seeks to bring God's healing and reconciling love to humanity.
In summary, the Church's teaching on mercy emphasizes its divine origin, its central role in the life and mission of Jesus Christ, and its imperative for all Christians to practice it in their daily lives through acts of compassion, forgiveness, and service.