Our thoughts and prayers this weekend are with Pope Leo as he is officially installed as the 267th Pope of our Church. In his first week, he has spoken powerfully about the need for global solidarity and offered the Vatican’s role as a mediator in world conflicts. I find great encouragement in this because I believe the Church has a special and much-needed voice regarding peace and diplomacy. It often works in the background. With Pope LEO, it may be more visible as he is gifted with several languages. What ever happens, the Holy Spirit will guide him.
The Church has a unique role as its foundation is not national or economic interest, but fundamentally, the love of God, echoed in today’s Gospel. “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: Just as I have loved you.”
God’s love knows no limits, it doesn’t build walls, it tears them down, bringing healing, freedom, and peace.
