Pope Leo XIV Prays for Argentina During Mass in Lujan

Pope Leo XIV addressed more than two million believers during a Mass in Lujan, where he offered prayers for the people of Argentina.

The Pope praised the natural beauty of the land, citing its plains, deserts, rivers, mountain ranges, plateaus, seas, and glaciers as reflections of the glory of the Lord. He expressed gratitude for the hospitality, openness, and energy of the Argentine people, noting their tradition of sharing bread and mate with guests and helping those in need.

During his sermon, Leo XIV outlined four stages of the Christian journey: reconciliation, enlightenment through the Word of God, communion, and mission. He stated that reconciliation begins with accepting divine grace and forgiveness, which allows individuals burdened by poverty, unemployment, discrimination, illness, and family conflict to find hope. He described the Word of God as a guiding light for those experiencing fatigue or confusion.

Regarding communion, the Pope emphasized that Christ welcomes the poor, migrants, the sick, and prisoners to his table. He urged the faithful to participate in community life and care for others, citing the example of Mary and Christ who loved to the end. He highlighted selfless acts of love, such as fathers working early for their families and mothers staying with sick children in hospitals.

Leo XIV concluded by calling on Argentina to rise and go, reminding the faithful of the mission to preach the Gospel through words and deeds. He offered a prayer to Our Lady of Lujan, noting that his pontificate began on May 8, the liturgical memory of the Virgin Mary. He asked for her intercession to guide the Argentine people in building bridges of love and solidarity.