Pope Leo XIV's Monaco Sermon Calls for Justice and Divine Mercy
Pope Leo XIV delivered a homily on March 28, 2026, during an afternoon Mass at Louis II Stadium in Monaco. The sermon marked a key moment in his papal visit, focusing on themes of liberation, justice, and divine mercy. The Gospel reading recounted the Sanhedrin's plot to kill Jesus. Religious leaders, driven by fear, condemned Him through political calculations. Even Caiaphas, despite his wicked motives, unknowingly prophesied that Jesus would die for the nation.
The homily drew parallels with the resurrection of Lazarus, which foreshadowed Christ's own passion, death, and resurrection. Pope Leo XIV emphasised that God's eternal justice rescues humanity from spiritual death, offering new life. He described how God reaches those enslaved by worldly idols, freeing them from false promises. The Pope also highlighted the Virgin Mary's role as Monaco's patroness. Under her guidance, the Church is called to create a welcoming space for the poor and vulnerable. The culture of mercy, he taught, stands in opposition to a throwaway society. The Church in Monaco, he added, must bear witness to peace and God's blessing in daily life. At the core of salvation, the Pope explained, is liberation from idols that corrupt the heart. Only then can true freedom and divine grace take hold.
The sermon concluded with a call for Monaco's Church to uphold mercy and dignity. Pope Leo XIV's message tied together scripture, tradition, and modern challenges. The visit left the principality with a renewed focus on faith, justice, and care for the marginalised.
