Pope Francis reflects on hope, fraternity, and inner renewal as 2024 concludes

Pope Francis concluded 2024 by leading the Church in thanksgiving through the chanting of the Te Deum hymn at the end of First Vespers for the Solemnity of Mary, the Mother of God. 

In his homily, the pope highlighted Mary’s role in helping us interpret the “signs of the times” through the mystery of Jesus.

Reflecting on the extensive works undertaken in Rome throughout 2024 in preparation for the Jubilee, the Holy Father emphasized their deeper significance in fulfilling Rome’s vocation to welcome all people, enabling them to recognize their shared identity as children of God and siblings to one another. 

Pope Francis expressed gratitude to God for allowing the Church to contribute to this “great cause” with the hope of fostering fraternity, proclaiming, “The hope of the world lies in fraternity.” 

He shared his joy in seeing Rome preparing to welcome pilgrims from around the world, including Catholics, other Christians, people of various religions, and seekers of truth, freedom, justice, and peace—describing them all as “pilgrims of hope and fraternity.”

Addressing the foundation of human fraternity, the pope asked whether it is merely a slogan or can rest on a solid base.

He affirmed that Mary, the Holy Mother of God, provides the answer by pointing to Jesus, the incarnate Son sent by the Father. 

Pope Francis declared that Jesus is the true hope for a fraternal world, enabling humanity to embrace its identity as children of God and siblings to one another. 

While appreciating the physical preparations for the Jubilee, the pope stressed that the most important work lies within each person: the inner transformation required to live as true children of God and as brothers and sisters to others. 

He concluded his homily with a prayer to Mary, asking her to guide the faithful as pilgrims of hope on the path to fraternity.