Pope Leo XIV Calls for Reconciliation and Mission in Argentina

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Pope Leo XIV urged believers to follow a path of reconciliation, community, and mission during his final mass in Argentina.

The Pope described this path as a reflection of the journey experienced in the celebration of every eucharist. He began his sermon by noting the richness of the country, stating that this wealth exists not only in geography but also in the people, specifically their spontaneity, creativity, and the life that flows everywhere.

Regarding the first step of the journey, the Pope identified reconciliation. He stated that this calls people to receive the grace of God and undergo processes of forgiveness and reconciliation to renew love, hope, and peace within themselves. For the second step, he invited believers to be enlightened by the word of God, particularly when they feel disappointed, discouraged, or tired, referencing the experience of the disciples on the road to Emmaus.

Pope Leo XIV continued by discussing the call to community, emphasizing that there is a place for everyone at the table of Christ, especially for those most in need. He referenced his own encyclical, Magnifica humanitas, to explain that strong convictions and different perceptions within the church are a source of richness if they remain rooted in the certainty that unity is a responsibility to be fulfilled and a gift to be received.

The final step of the path is to be sent out on mission. The Pope urged believers to go and evangelize and to go and proclaim, telling Argentina to rise and go while inviting them to do everything out of love.

Because the mass was held before the basilica dedicated to Our Lady of Luján, the patron saint of Argentina, the Pope recalled the deep devotion of his predecessor, Pope Francis, to the mother of God. He stated that Mary follows believers on this path, unites herself with the eucharistic sacrifice, and stands at the foot of the cross. Pope Leo XIV concluded by entrusting his apostolic mission and himself to Our Lady of Luján, seeking protection under her mantle as millions of Argentines do. He prayed for the blessed Virgin to guide the Argentine people and help them build networks of solidarity and bridges of love.