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Pope Leo XIV addressed officials and staff of the Holy See, emphasizing the importance of striving for holiness to effectively serve its mission. During a Mass on June 9, celebrating the Jubilee of the Holy See, he stated that "the fruitfulness of the church is realized in the lives of her members" when they love according to Jesus' example.
The pope highlighted that all fruitfulness within the church and Holy See depends on Christ's cross. Without this foundation, he noted, it risks being mere appearance or worse. The celebration also included a morning meditation by Sister Maria Gloria Riva from the Perpetual Adoration Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament. She discussed hope and maintaining a balance between past and future during her talk at Paul VI Audience Hall.
Following this meditation, Pope Leo led a procession through St. Peter’s Square to St. Peter’s Basilica where he celebrated Mass. He emphasized Mary’s role as mother of the church and how its fruitfulness mirrors hers through members' love modeled after Jesus.
He further explained that both Mary’s and the church's fruitfulness are linked to their holiness and conformity to Christ. "The Apostolic See thus preserves the holiness of its roots while being preserved by them," said Pope Leo.
The pope underscored that serving the Holy See best involves personal holiness aligned with one's life state and responsibilities. He provided examples such as priests bearing heavy crosses yet performing duties with faith or parents facing family challenges but continuing their work diligently.
Pope Leo also mentioned Mary's support for Apostle Peter's ministry, stating that "the mother church supports the ministry of Peter’s successors with Marian charism." This aspect ensures Petrine ministry's fruitfulness and holiness.
Concluding his address, Pope Leo prayed for God’s guidance through His Word so that His church remains fruitful in spirit, celebrates children’s holiness, and embraces humanity universally.
