Dear brothers and sisters, happy Sunday!

As the liturgical year draws to a close, today’s Gospel (Lk 21:5-19) invites us to reflect on the travails of history and the end times.  Looking at these events and knowing our hearts, Jesus invites us not to be overcome by fear: “When you hear of wars and insurrections,” he says, “do not be terrified” (v. 9).

His appeal is very timely because unfortunately we receive daily news about conflicts, disasters and persecutions that torment millions of men and women.  However, in the face of these afflictions, and in the face of the indifference that seeks to ignore them, Jesus’ words proclaim that the attack of evil cannot destroy the hope of those who trust in him.  The darker the hour, the more faith shines like the sun.

Twice, in fact, Christ affirms that “because of my name” many will suffer violence and betrayal (Lk 21:12, 17), but precisely then they will have the opportunity to bear witness (cf.  v. 13).  We are called to follow the example of the Master, who revealed the immensity of his love on the cross.  This encouragement concerns us all.  Indeed, the persecution of Christians does not only happen through mistreatment and weapons, but also with words, that is, through lies and ideological manipulation.  Especially when we are oppressed by these evils, both physical and moral, we are called to bear witness to the truth that saves the world; to the justice that redeems peoples from oppression; to the hope that shows everyone the way to peace.

Jesus’ words, in a prophetic way, attest to the fact that the disasters and sorrows of history will come to an end. At the same time, the joy of those who recognize him as Saviour, is destined to last forever.  “By your endurance you will gain your souls” (Lk 21:19): this promise of the Lord gives us the strength to resist the threatening events of history and every offense.  We do not remain powerless in the face of suffering, because he himself gives us “words and a wisdom” (v. 15) always to do the good with a fervent heart.

Dear friends, throughout the history of the Church, it is above all the martyrs who remind us that God’s grace is capable of transforming even violence into a sign of redemption.  Therefore, joining with our brothers and sisters who suffer for the name of Jesus, let us confidently seek the intercession of Mary, Help of Christians.  In every trial and difficulty, may the Blessed Virgin console and sustain us.

Dear brothers and sisters!

As I just mentioned in my reflection on the Gospel, Christians today are still suffering from discrimination and persecution in various parts of the world.  In particular, I think of Bangladesh, Nigeria, Mozambique, Sudan and other countries from which we often hear news of attacks on communities and places of worship.  God is a merciful Father, and he desires peace among all his children!  My prayers are with the families in Kivu, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, where in recent days there has been a massacre of civilians, with at least twenty victims of a terrorist attack.  Let us pray that all violence will cease, and that believers will work together for the common good.

I follow with sorrow the news of the attacks that continue to strike numerous Ukrainian cities, including Kyiv.  They cause casualties and injuries – children among them – and extensive damage to civilian infrastructure, leaving families homeless as the cold weather sets in.  I assure those severely affected of my closeness.  We must not become accustomed to war and destruction!  Let us pray together for a just and lasting peace in war-torn Ukraine.

I would also like to offer my prayers for the victims of the serious road accident that occurred last Wednesday in southern Peru.  May the Lord welcome the deceased, sustain the injured and comfort the bereaved families.

Yesterday, in Bari, Carmelo De Palma was beatified.  He was a diocesan priest who died in 1961 after a life generously spent in the ministry of Confession and spiritual accompaniment.  May his witness inspire priests to give themselves unreservedly to the service of God’s holy people.

Today we celebrate the World Day of the Poor.  I thank all those in dioceses and parishes who have organized initiatives of solidarity with the most disadvantaged.  This is an opportune day on which to highlight once again the Apostolic Exhortation Dilexi Te, “I have loved you”, on love for the poor, a document that Pope Francis was preparing in the last months of his life and which I completed with great joy.

On this day, we also remember all those who have died in road accidents, too often caused by irresponsible behaviour.  Let each of us examine our conscience on this matter.

I also join the Church in Italy, which today promotes the “Day of prayer for the victims and survivors of abuse”, so that a culture of respect may grow and ensure the protection of the dignity of every person, especially minors and the most vulnerable.

I thank you all, and wish you a happy Sunday!

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