On Sunday, 1 November 2026, Pope Leo XIV addressed the faithful from St Peter’s Square on the Solemnity of All Saints. He emphasized that holiness is not limited to a select group but is a universal vocation. The Pope reflected on the vast multitude of saints from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and walks of life who have made their lives a gift to God and their neighbours.
The Pope cited the Liturgy of the Word, which describes this multitude as "a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages." He noted that today’s celebration includes both formally recognized saints and countless others known only to God. Their characteristics, as reminded by the Gospel, include being poor in spirit yet rich in God’s love, finding consolation in prayer, and being meek in the face of violence.
Pope Leo XIV highlighted that the actions and choices of love made by the saints transcend greed and evil. He described them as the most beautiful and powerful sign of the Kingdom of God that is already among us. The Pope emphasized that this blessed multitude includes people from diverse backgrounds, underscoring that holiness is not a privilege reserved for a few but a universal vocation.
The Pope referenced Pope Benedict XVI, who described the saints as longing for "the ocean of infinite love." He encouraged the faithful to reflect on the good that the saints have brought forth through their actions and choices of love. By doing so, the Pope invited the faithful to ask themselves what they, with God’s grace, can bring forth in their own lives.
Pope Leo XIV expressed hope that the Blessed Virgin Mary, who believed the word of the Lord, would accompany the faithful along the path to holiness. He encouraged them to foster peace in both significant situations and everyday life. The Pope's message was part of his Angelus address on the Solemnity of All Saints.
The Southern Cross, a publication based in South Africa, reported on the Pope's address. The article was published on November 2, 2026, and reflected the Pope's message of hope and universality of holiness. The publication invited readers to support their mission to bring the Good News to those in need of God’s healing hand.
In conclusion, Pope Leo XIV's address on All Saints' Day served as a reminder of the universal vocation to holiness. He encouraged the faithful to reflect on the characteristics of the saints and to strive for holiness in their own lives. The Pope's message was one of hope and inclusivity, emphasizing that holiness is accessible to all, regardless of background or circumstances.
Key points
- Holiness is a universal vocation, not a privilege reserved for a select few.
- The Pope emphasized the importance of actions and choices of love in achieving holiness.
- The Blessed Virgin Mary was invoked to accompany the faithful along the path to holiness.
