Pope Leo XIV on Sept. 6 participated in the Vatican’s Festival of Families, where he highlighted the importance of the witness of families in today’s world.
The event took place in the plaza of the Governorate of Vatican City, a beautiful esplanade located behind St. Peter’s Basilica.
Although originally scheduled for May, the festival had to be postponed due to the death of Pope Francis.
In a brief impromptu address, reported by Vatican News, the Holy Father asked for applause for all the families and their children, expressing his joy at being able to gather with them in a festive atmosphere.
He also invited those present to live “this beautiful moment” with an open heart, to celebrate “the joy of being a family, the joy of being all united, of becoming friends with one another, of celebrating the gifts, especially the gift of life, the gift of family that the Lord has given us.”
“This witness of families is so important in our world today!” the Holy Father then emphasized.
Finally, he thanked the Vatican employees for their witness, their presence, and “for all they do, sometimes at great sacrifice, to live united as a family, transmitting this message, thus sharing in the spirit that Jesus Christ left us.”
He then prayed a Hail Mary and imparted his blessing to those present. The event was also attended by Sister Rafaella Petrini, president of the Governorate of Vatican City State.
Also present were the two secretaries-general, Archbishop Emilio Nappa and Giuseppe Puglisi-Alibrandi, along with the two emeritus presidents, Cardinal Fernando Vergéz Alzaga and Cardinal Giuseppe Bertello.
Pope Leo XIV had the opportunity to personally greet all the families and spend some time with them. The Italian pizzeria O’ Zi Aniello even presented him with a pizza bearing his name.
The festival continued into the evening, with an outdoor dinner for Vatican employees, who were also able to enjoy various entertainment.
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This story was first published by ACI Prensa, CNA’s Spanish-language news partner. It has been translated and adapted by CNA.
