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Pope Leo XIV addressed his first general audience on May 21, 2025, in the Paul VI Hall. He focused on the theme "Jesus Christ Our Hope," continuing a series of Jubilee catecheses initiated by Pope Francis.
During his address, Pope Leo XIV explored the parables of Jesus, emphasizing their role in restoring hope and illustrating how God operates in history. He concentrated on the parable of the sower (cf. Mt. 13:1-17), which he described as an introduction to all parables and reflective of Jesus' communication style.
"Every parable tells a story that is taken from everyday life, yet wants to tell us something more, to refer us to a deeper meaning," he stated. The pope explained that these stories prompt introspection and challenge appearances.
He elaborated on the dynamics of God's word using the imagery of seeds being sown across different types of soil—representing people's hearts and various environments like communities and churches. "The word of God... makes fruitful and provokes every reality," he said.
The pope depicted a sower who indiscriminately spreads seeds regardless of where they land, symbolizing God's unconditional love for humanity. This approach challenges conventional calculations but aligns with divine generosity. "God throws the seed of his Word on all kinds of soil," Pope Leo XIV noted, emphasizing that this act inspires hope based on God's mercy.
Referencing Van Gogh's painting The Sower at Sunset, he highlighted its depiction of hope through ripe grain under a blazing sun—an analogy for God's unseen influence over history.
In conclusion, Pope Leo XIV encouraged believers to remain receptive to God's word and seek transformation into better soil if necessary. "Let us ask him to work on us more to make us become a better terrain."
In an appeal regarding global issues, Pope Leo XIV expressed concern over conditions in the Gaza Strip: "I renew my heartfelt appeal to allow the entry of dignified humanitarian aid and to put an end to the hostilities."
