Pope Francis urges Armed Forces to be courageous witnesses of God's love and peace

On February 9, during the Jubilee Mass for Armed Forces, Police, and Security Personnel, Pope Francis encouraged them to be courageous witnesses of God’s love.

He entrusted their mission to Christ, reminding them that turning to Him in constant prayer is a source of strength.

The pope also praised chaplains for their accompaniment, describing them as "the presence of Christ" among service members.

Reflecting on St. John’s Gospel, Pope Francis focused on three key actions of Jesus at the Lake of Gennesaret: He saw, He went aboard, and He sat down.

The pope first highlighted how Jesus, with a discerning gaze, saw the empty nets of the fishermen and the disappointment on their faces.

Despite their struggles, Jesus looked at them with compassion.

Pope Francis reassured the faithful that God’s closeness, compassion, and tenderness are always present in our lives.

As he continued his homily, he asked Archbishop Diego Ravelli to read on his behalf due to shortness of breath, as he recovers from bronchitis.

The pope explained that after seeing the fishermen’s discouragement, Jesus stepped into Simon Peter’s boat. This act symbolizes how Christ enters into people’s struggles, sharing their disappointments and offering hope. Unlike those who passively observe hardships, Jesus takes initiative, offering His presence in moments of failure.

Once aboard, Jesus sat down and began to teach, illuminating the darkness of disappointment with the Good News.

Pope Francis emphasized that when Christ enters the boat of our lives, hope is renewed, and we find the strength to move forward.

Connecting this message to the occasion, Pope Francis thanked members of the Armed Forces, Police, and Security Personnel for their service.

He acknowledged their vital role in defending nations, maintaining security, and upholding justice.

He encouraged them to not only recognize evil but to actively engage in ensuring peace and stability, just as Jesus stepped into the boat of Simon Peter.

The Pope also urged them to remember that their presence in society is a reminder that goodness can triumph over all challenges.

Pope Francis highlighted the significant role of chaplains, describing them as Christ’s presence among service members.

He clarified that their mission is not to bless acts of war but to provide moral and spiritual support, walking alongside those they serve.

He said that chaplains help military personnel carry out their duties in light of the Gospel and for the common good, serving as a guiding force to ensure their commitment to protecting life and peace.

Expressing gratitude for their dedication, often at great personal risk, Pope Francis reminded service members to stay true to their mission of safeguarding life.

He cautioned against developing a warlike mindset or being swayed by propaganda that fosters hatred and division.

Instead, the Pope urged them to be "courageous witnesses of the love of God" and to work toward a world of peace, justice, and fraternity.

He concluded with a call for unity, encouraging everyone to be "artisans of a new era of peace."