Pope Leo XIV: ‘The charism of St. Francis continues to bear fruit even today’

VATICAN CITY — Pope Leo XIV on Sunday reflected on the Gospel parable of the tenants and the enduring witness of St. Francis of Assisi, saying that “the charism of Saint Francis continues to bear fruit even today” eight centuries after the saintʼs death.

Introducing the Angelus before pilgrims gathered in St. Peter’s Square, the pope noted that the Gospel recounts how Christ came to bring salvation but was rejected by those who should have welcomed him.

“The Son of God sent into the world is rejected by the very people who should have welcomed him with open arms. The One who came to bring salvation is condemned; the One who wishes to give life is put to death,” the pope said.

While such realities lead Christians to reflect on “the many cruelties that plague the world and the history of peoples,” he added, “Christ’s teaching reveals the ever-greater mercy of his Father.”

Despite humanityʼs rejection of God, Leo emphasized that divine providence continues to guide history toward redemption.

“This is how the Almighty guides history, coming to our aid in all our falls: God never discards our lives!” he said.

Drawing on the Gospel image of the vineyard, the pope said the…