Pope Leo: Persecuted Christians are witnesses of truth, justice, hope

By Kielce Gussie

Celebrating the World Day of the Poor on 16 November, Pope Leo contemplated the day’s Gospel, which “invites us to reflect on the travails of history and the end times.” However, Jesus encourages us not to be afraid of the wars and insurrections that will occur at the end of the world.

Jesus’ message, the Pope pointed out, is very pertinent today as we unfortunately “receive daily news about conflicts, disasters and persecutions that torment millions of men and women.”

Yet, in the midst of these struggles and the indifference that tries to ignore them, Jesus offers words of comfort to those who trust in Him. “The darker the hour, the more faith shines like the sun”, Pope Leo stressed.

Twice in the Gospel of Luke Jesus warned that many will face violence and persecution because of His name, and they will have the opportunity to bear witness to Christ. The Pope reiterated that everyone is called to follow Jesus’ example.

Persecution can take many forms—not only through weapons and death but also through words, lies, ideological manipulation. Particularly when enduring these trials, “both physical and moral, we are called to bear witness to the truth that saves the world; to the justice that redeems peoples from oppression; to the hope that shows everyone the way to peace.”

40,000 people gathered in St. Peter’s Square for the Angelus   (@Vatican Media)

In a prophetic way, Jesus’s words reveal that disasters and sorrows will not last forever, but will end. However, Pope Leo noted that “at the same time, the joy of those who recognize him as Savior, is destined to last forever.”

Enduring the trials and challenges of the end times, we will “gain” our souls. This promise, the Pope explained, “gives us the strength to resist the threatening events of history and every offense.” In these times of persecution, Jesus will give us the words to say.

Concluding, Pope Leo looked to the example of the martyrs, who throughout the Church’s history, have served as reminders “that God’s grace is capable of transforming even violence into a sign of redemption.”

Joining in with our brothers and sisters who continue to face suffering and persecution for Jesus’ name around the world, the Pope invited us all to seek Mary’s intercession as the Help of Christians. “In every trial and difficulty, may the Blessed Virgin console and sustain us.”