On New Year’s Day, Pope Francis delivered a powerful message about the sanctity of life during a Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica, where he honored Mary, the mother of Jesus.
He urged believers to reject abortion outright, highlighting the need to protect life from conception until natural death.
Protecting the Dignity of Life
The Pope expressed his hope that people would come to recognize the invaluable worth of every child and the importance of preserving life’s dignity.
This protection extends not only to the unborn but also to those who are vulnerable—whether they are suffering, facing poverty, elderly, isolated, or nearing death.
He called on individuals to cherish their own existence and harbor hope for the future, emphasizing the significance of honoring human dignity at every stage of life.
Evolving Views on Abortion
At 88 years old, Pope Francis has become more outspoken against abortion over time.
Since the start of his papacy in 2013, his views have transformed.
He has previously criticized the Church’s fixation on certain doctrinal issues around contentious topics like abortion.
In a recent and striking statement, he even compared opting for abortion to hiring a hitman to solve a problem.
His comments in Belgium stirred considerable controversy when he labeled the nation’s abortion law as “homicidal.” He expressed a desire to beatify King Baudouin, who famously abdicated for a day rather than approve a law that legalized abortion.
The beatification process for the late king, who passed away in 1993, is currently underway.
Calls for Global Responsibility
This Mass took place at the end of a hectic Christmas season for Pope Francis.
The celebrations were particularly taxing this year, compounded by his ongoing respiratory issues and the approaching Vatican Holy Year, a significant event anticipated to attract up to 32 million pilgrims to Rome in 2025.
Speaking to the crowd gathered in the sunlit St. Peter’s Square, the Pope reiterated a vital theme for the Jubilee: the importance of forgiving debts.
He called on leaders of wealthy nations to take concrete steps to alleviate the financial struggles of poorer countries, particularly urging Christian leaders to set an example in these efforts.
Source: Religionnews
