Pope at Regina Caeli: May Spirit Open Paths of Reconciliation

Vatican City, 8 June, 2025 - On the Solemnity of Pentecost, Pope Leo XIV led the Regina Caeli prayer with pilgrims gathered in St. Peter’s Square, calling upon the Holy Spirit to bring peace to troubled hearts and war-stricken regions.

The Pope reflected on the concluding day of the Easter Season, urging the faithful to “invoke from the Holy Spirit the gift of peace.” He emphasised that peace must first reign in individual hearts, noting, “Only a peaceful heart can spread peace—in families, in society, and in international relations.”

Highlighting the Holy Spirit’s transformative power, Pope Leo said the Risen Christ’s Spirit “can open paths of reconciliation where war tears people apart.” He appealed for world leaders to seek dialogue and de-escalation, praying that the Spirit would enlighten and embolden them to act with courage.

The Pope extended heartfelt thanks to the many people who join him through various media channels and acknowledged the vibrant presence of ecclesial associations, movements, and new communities who were in Rome for their Jubilee event during the 2025 Holy Year.

Following the Jubilee Mass for Movements, Associations, and New Communities, the Pope invited participants to carry the flame of the Holy Spirit into their communities. “Dear sisters and brothers,” he said, “go forth renewed from this Jubilee of yours. Go and bring the hope of the Lord Jesus to everyone!”

In a final gesture of pastoral concern, Pope Leo offered his best wishes to students in Italy and beyond who are completing their academic year. “I wish to greet all students and teachers, especially those who will be taking exams in the coming days,” he said.

The Regina Caeli—an ancient Marian antiphon—replaces the Angelus during Eastertide and is traditionally recited at dawn, noon, and dusk. Attributed to early Christian devotion and formally instituted by Pope Benedict XIV in 1742, the prayer celebrates Mary’s joy in the Resurrection. Recited while standing, it expresses triumph over death and unites believers with the Queen of Heaven in rejoicing over Christ’s victory.

As Pope Francis once noted, “Our joy is a reflection of Mary’s joy,” encouraging the faithful to pray the Regina Caeli as “children who are happy because their mother is happy.”

Courtesy: Vatican News