VATICAN CITY — As reported by Thaddeus Jones for Vatican News, on Good Shepherd Sunday , Pope Leo XIV stood before an estimated 100,000 pilgrims gathered in St. Peter’s Square to lead the recitation of the Regina Caeli , delivering a heartfelt message that emphasized prayer for vocations , a life of service , and the importance of walking together “in love and truth.”
The occasion marked both the World Day of Prayer for Vocations and the closing day of the Jubilee pilgrimage of musicians and entertainers , bringing together people from over 90 countries . From the central loggia of St. Peter’s Basilica, Pope Leo greeted the faithful with warmth and joy, describing the Sunday Gospel — which presents Jesus as the Good Shepherd — as a “gift from God” on the first Good Shepherd Sunday of his pontificate.
‘A Gift from God’: Good Shepherd Sunday
Reflecting on the Gospel reading, the Pope said it was deeply meaningful that this Sunday, dedicated to Christ the Shepherd, coincided with his early days as Bishop of Rome.
“Jesus reveals himself as the true Shepherd who knows and loves his sheep and gives his life for them,” he said. “This image reminds us of the mission of every shepherd in the Church — to serve, to guide, and to lay down one’s life for others.”
He encouraged priests, religious, and lay faithful alike to reflect on how they are called to be shepherds in their own vocations — whether in marriage, ministry, or consecrated life.
A Renewed Appeal for Vocations
Turning to the theme of vocations, Pope Leo reminded the crowd that the Church has a “great need” for priests and those consecrated to religious life. He urged communities to offer young people discerning a vocation the support, encouragement, and spiritual accompaniment they need to respond generously to God’s call.
“We must all play our part,” he said, “by creating environments where vocations can grow — places of listening, acceptance, and witness.” He also thanked the many laypeople, families, and parish communities who help nurture these calls.
His words echoed the message of Pope Francis for this year’s World Day of Prayer for Vocations, which emphasized the importance of welcoming and accompanying young people on their journey of discernment.
“Let us ask the Lord to help us live in service to one another,” the Pope said, “so we may be capable of helping each other walk in love and truth.”
Encouraging Words for Young People
Addressing young people directly, Pope Leo offered a powerful encouragement:
“Do not be afraid! Accept the invitation of the Church and of Christ the Lord!”
He reminded them that Mary, whose entire life was a response to God’s call, is the perfect model of faithfulness and courage in saying “yes” to the unknown.
“May the Virgin Mary, whose entire life was a response to the Lord’s call, always accompany us in following Jesus,” he concluded.
Jubilee of Music and Popular Entertainment
Earlier in the day, Pope Leo greeted participants in the Jubilee of Bands and Popular Entertainment , thanking them for their music and performances that “enliven the feast of Christ the Good Shepherd.”
He praised their role in bringing joy and beauty to the liturgical celebrations and affirmed the importance of art and culture in evangelization.
“You remind us that beauty is a path to holiness,” he told the jubilant crowd.
A Message for the Whole Church
In his brief but moving address, Pope Leo XIV issued a call not only to future priests and religious, but to all the faithful — to live lives rooted in service, humility, and mutual support.
As the Regina Caeli echoed across St. Peter’s Square, the Holy Father left the faithful with a challenge: to become more attentive to the needs of others, more open to God’s voice, and more willing to walk together in love — just as the Good Shepherd leads His flock.
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🔗 Pilgrims from 90 countries gather for Jubilee of Bands and Popular Entertainment (10/05/2025)
