Pope Highlights St. Joseph’s Faith and Mercy in Advent Angelus Address

Vatican City, December 21, 2025 : Reflecting on the Gospel of the day during the midday Angelus on the Fourth Sunday of Advent, Pope Leo XIV invited the faithful to meditate on the figure of Saint Joseph, describing him as a man of faith, mercy and trust who responded to God’s call with courage amid uncertainty.

Addressing pilgrims and faithful gathered in Saint Peter’s Square, the Pope recalled how God revealed Joseph’s mission through a dream. He noted that Joseph responded with deep sensitivity and humanity, even while facing immense challenges. Before the angel clarified God’s plan, Joseph had already chosen a discreet and compassionate path towards Mary, showing mercy rather than judgement.

The Pope explained that when the dream revealed the mystery unfolding in Mary, Joseph’s inner nobility became even clearer. God entrusted him with a decisive role in the plan of salvation as the spouse of the Virgin Mother of the Messiah. With a profound act of faith, Joseph relinquished his own sense of security and entrusted his future entirely to God’s hands.

Highlighting the virtues presented by the Advent liturgy, the Pope said piety, charity, mercy and trust marked the life of the man from Nazareth. These attitudes, he added, prepare hearts to encounter Christ and others, especially in the final days of Advent leading to Christmas. Such virtues can help believers become places of welcome and signs of God’s presence for one another.

Encouraging the faithful to follow St. Joseph’s example, the Pope urged them to practise forgiveness, offer encouragement and bring hope to those they meet. He also called for renewed trust in God through prayer, inviting everyone to entrust their lives confidently to divine providence.

The Pope assured the faithful of the intercession of the Virgin Mary and Saint Joseph, noting that they were the first to welcome Jesus with faith and love.

Following his reflection, the Pope greeted those present in Saint Peter’s Square, including more than 1,500 children from Rome, as well as groups from Spain and Hong Kong. The children presented their bambinelli—figures of the baby Jesus—to be blessed, which will later be placed in Nativity scenes in homes, schools and parishes.

Addressing the children, the Pope invited them to pray for his intentions and, in particular, for peace for all children around the world. He concluded by imparting his blessing and wishing everyone a happy Sunday and a holy and peaceful Christmas.

Pope Highlights St. Joseph’s Faith and Mercy in Advent Angelus Address

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