Pope Leo XIV at Jubilee Audience: Advent Teaches Us to Wait with Active Hope

On Saturday, Pope Leo XIV conducted a distinguished Jubilee Audience, as the Church progresses through the Advent Season in anticipation of Christmas.

Advent: A Call to Vigilance and Active Hope

In his catechesis, the Pope remarked that Advent instructs us to be vigilant regarding the signs of the times, emphasizing that recognizing Jesus in our world and everyday lives requires both preparation and diligence.

He remarked that our anticipation for the realization of creation and its redemption is not a passive endeavor, emphasizing that God consistently seeks to engage us in His divine work.

“He engages us in His narrative, in His aspirations,” he stated. “Thus, to hope is to take part.”

Pilgrims of Hope Beyond the Jubilee

He reflected on the Jubilee theme—“Pilgrims of Hope”—noting that this motto will retain its significance even after the Jubilee concludes at Christmas.

Instead, it urges us to embark on a hopeful journey throughout our lives and to await developments not idly, but by engaging actively in the process.

Reading the Signs of the Times

The Pope stated that Christians are called to "read the signs of the times," which represent God's indications within historical contexts, as articulated by the Second Vatican Council.

“He is not separate from the world or this life: we have come to understand through the initial arrival of Jesus, God-with-us, that we should search for Him within the realities of existence,” he stated. “We must seek Him with both intellect and heart, and with our sleeves rolled up!”

Lay Catholics are particularly invited to undertake this mission, as the Incarnate God engages with us amidst the challenges and wonders of everyday life.

The Witness of Alberto Marvelli

He reflected on the life and testimony of Alberto Marvelli, a young Italian affiliated with Catholic Action in the 20th century, who aspired to restore Italy following the destruction wrought by the Second World War.

He jeopardized his life through political engagement and tragically lost it when he was struck and killed by a military vehicle while cycling to a rally.

“The world improves when we relinquish a measure of security and comfort to select what is right,” stated the Pope. “This constitutes participation.”

Hope as Participation in God's Work

In summary, Pope Leo XIV urged Catholics to reflect on whether we are joyfully utilizing our talents in service to others and in the advancement of the Kingdom of God.

“To hope is to engage in participation: this is a divine gift bestowed upon us,” he remarked. “No individual can save the world in isolation. Even God, though capable, does not desire to achieve salvation alone, for together is a more favorable approach.”