Celebrating the joyous occasion of Easter during the morning Mass in Saint Peter’s Square, Pope Francis delivered a poignant homily that called on all believers to hasten in their quest for the risen Lord, much like the first disciples did. He urged us to renew the gift of hope within ourselves and to share it generously with others we encounter on our life’s journey.
Italian Cardinal Angelo Comastri presided over the Easter morning Mass on behalf of Pope Francis and welcomed the more than fifty thousand faithful who gathered in the vibrant, flower-filled expanse of Saint Peter’s Square. This year marks the 39th anniversary of Dutch florists providing an extraordinary array of flowers, transforming the Square with tens of thousands of blooms in a stunning, intricate display that added to the atmosphere of celebration and reverence.
Cardinal Comastri, recognized for his long-standing service as the Archpriest emeritus of Saint Peter’s Basilica and Vicar General emeritus of Vatican City, led the liturgical ceremonies with grace, reading the homily that Pope Francis had prepared for this special occasion.
In his homily, Pope Francis reflected on the passionate search of Mary Magdalene, Peter, and John as they hurried to discover the empty tomb. He emphasized that this “running” not only stemmed from their concern that the Lord’s body had been taken away but also from a deeper, profound yearning of the heart — a heartfelt desire to seek out Jesus. The Pope reminded us that the Lord has indeed risen from the dead and that our search for Him must extend beyond the physical tomb.
The essence of the Easter message is encapsulated in the proclamation, “Christ is risen; He is alive!” which the Pope fervently reiterated, declaring that Christ is no longer bound by death. This truth compels us to take action, to embark on our own journeys to seek the Lord in our lives — in the faces of our brothers and sisters, in the myriad experiences of our daily existence — “everywhere except in the tomb.”
Pope Francis conveyed that “Christ is present everywhere,” underscoring that He dwells among us and often hides in plain sight, revealing Himself through the ordinary encounters we have in our lives. He is present not only in moments of joy but also in the tears of those who suffer, reminding us that the beauty of life is often enhanced by the small acts of love we extend to one another. Each act of kindness becomes a reflection of Christ’s love, weaved
