In his homily, Pope Leo begins by recalling the words of the responsorial psalm: 'I will sing a new song to the Lord, for He has done marvels,' inviting the Church to recognize the blessings God continues to pour out through the ministry of Peter. Acknowledging the weight of the Petrine mission entrusted to him, he calls upon his brother cardinals and all believers to walk with him as a community of disciples, proclaiming the Gospel with joy. Quoting Peter’s profession—“You are the Christ, the Son of the living God”—Pope Leo emphasizes the Church’s duty to preserve, deepen, and share this core truth of faith through apostolic succession.
He reflects on the mystery of Christ as the one who reveals the face of the Father through every stage of human life, culminating in his risen glory. In Jesus, humanity sees the model of true holiness and the promise of eternal life. Pope Leo explains that Peter’s response reveals both the gift of God and the path of transformation that leads to salvation—two inseparable aspects of the Church's mission. He humbly accepts the call to be a steward of this divine treasure, not for personal honor, but to serve the mystical body of Christ and lead the Church as a beacon in a darkened world, not through grandeur but through the holiness of its members.
Turning to the world’s response to Jesus, Pope Leo highlights the contrast between worldly rejection and genuine faith. He notes how some see Jesus as insignificant or merely a moral teacher, while others appreciate his words but abandon him when challenges arise. These attitudes, he warns, persist today in societies where Christianity is often dismissed or reduced to superficial inspiration. He names modern idols—pleasure, power, technology, and success—that replace faith and contribute to widespread spiritual and moral wounds, such as the erosion of family life and the loss of human dignity. In such a world, the Church must courageously bear witness to Christ, even when mocked or opposed.
In conclusion, Pope Leo urges the Church to echo Peter’s words—“You are the Christ, the Son of the living God”—not just in doctrine, but through ongoing conversion and shared missionary commitment. As the new bishop of Rome and successor of Peter, he embraces the call to preside in charity, drawing inspiration from Saint Ignatius of Antioch’s sacrificial witness. True discipleship, he affirms, means making room for Christ to shine through, spending oneself fully so that others may know and love Jesus. Through the intercession of Mary, Mother of the Church, Pope Leo prays for the grace to serve with humility and fidelity, so that the Church may be ever more radiant in her mission.
Journal and reflect on the following
What does it mean for you personally to repeat Peter’s words: “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God”?
How can you recognize and respond to the “marvels” God is doing in your life and in the Church today?
In what ways are you tempted to reduce Jesus to a moral teacher or inspirational figure, rather than embracing Him as Lord and Savior?
Where do you see signs in our world today of the “darkness” Pope Leo mentions—such as the loss of meaning, dignity, or mercy—and how can the Church respond?
How do you understand the call to humility in leadership, especially the idea of “moving aside so that Christ remains”?
What does it mean for the Church to be a “city on a hill” or an “ark of salvation” in today’s society?
How might the witness of saints like Augustine, Peter, and Ignatius of Antioch challenge you to live your faith more deeply and courageously?
Discuss
Song - Sing a New Song
Song - Sing a new song!
Lord Jesus Christ, You are the Son of the living God, the one true Savior who reveals the face of the Father and calls us out of darkness into Your marvelous light. As Pope Leo begins his mission in the spirit of Saint Peter and with the wisdom of Saint Augustine, grant us too the courage to proclaim You with our lives. In a world that often rejects or forgets You, make us beacons of faith, love, and truth. Teach us to walk humbly, to serve faithfully, and to move aside so that You may be seen and glorified in all we do. May Your grace strengthen our witness, and may Your Church shine ever more brightly as a light to the nations. Amen.
