Pope Francis marked Easter Sunday in 2025 in a manner distinct from previous years. The pontiff was present at the Vatican, but Archbishop Diego Ravelli, the Master of Pontifical Liturgical Celebrations, delivered the traditional “urbi et orbi” blessing instead of him. This came as the 88-year-old Pope remains convalescing and physically limited.
In a brief appearance, Pope Francis greeted the crowd with a succinct “Brothers and Sisters, Happy Easter,” before offering his blessing. The absence of his full speech underscored the pontiff’s ongoing health challenges, but he still managed to impart the message of Easter to the faithful gathered in St Peter’s Square.
“Urbi et Orbi” Delivered by Archbishop Ravelli
The annual “urbi et orbi” message, which translates to “To the city [of Rome] and to the world,” is a papal tradition on major feast days such as Easter and Christmas. This year, Archbishop Ravelli delivered the blessing to the gathered crowd, reading the message aloud from the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, a role usually reserved for the pope. Pope Francis stayed present but physically restrained, briefly raised his hand in blessing after the message was read aloud.
Pope’s Easter Message Focuses on Hope and Peace
The full text of Pope Francis’ Easter blessing resonated with themes of resurrection, peace, and hope, offering comfort to those suffering across the globe.
“Christ is risen, alleluia! Today at last, the singing of the ‘alleluia’ is heard once more in the Church, passing from mouth to mouth, from heart to heart,” the message began. The pope spoke of the joy shared by Christians worldwide, celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ. “From the empty tomb in Jerusalem, we hear unexpected good news: Jesus, who was crucified, ‘is not here, he has risen’ (Lk 24:5). Jesus is not in the tomb, he is alive!” he proclaimed.
The pope’s message also acknowledged the ongoing struggles faced by people around the world, particularly those enduring pain, sorrow, and conflict. He assured the faithful that their cries had been heard. “Your silent cry has been heard and your tears have been counted; not one of them has been lost,” he said, adding that the resurrection represented God’s ultimate triumph over evil.
A Call for Renewed Hope in Troubling Times
Pope Francis urged the world to renew its commitment to peace, especially in light of the violent conflicts impacting regions like Palestine and Israel. He directly referenced the suffering of those living in Gaza, including the Christian community there, amidst the ongoing violence.
“I express my closeness to the sufferings of Christians in Palestine and Israel, and to all the Israeli people and the Palestinian people,” he stated. He called for an immediate ceasefire, the release of hostages, and aid for those caught in the dire humanitarian situation.
The pope’s words also resonated with those experiencing marginalisation or living in vulnerable conditions, as he appealed for greater empathy and trust. “I would like us to renew our hope that peace is possible! For all of us are children of God!” he said.
Addressing the Crisis of Anti-Semitism
Pope Francis did not shy away from addressing the growing global issue of anti-Semitism, a concern that has become increasingly urgent in recent years. “The growing climate of anti-Semitism throughout the world is worrisome,” he remarked. The pope’s words reflected a broader commitment to peace and understanding, urging people to embrace differences rather than create divisions.
A Shared Celebration of Easter
The pope highlighted a unique and meaningful event for the Christian world: Catholics and Orthodox Christians celebrated Easter 2025 on the same day. He hoped this shared celebration would symbolise unity and peace, especially in the Holy Land. “The light of peace radiates throughout the Holy Land and the entire world from the Holy Sepulchre, the Church of the Resurrection, where Catholics and Orthodox celebrate Easter on the same day this year,” he said.
Pope Francis delivered a powerful message during Easter celebrations worldwide, urging people to embrace peace, hope, and compassion amid conflict and suffering. The pope’s spiritual presence resonated deeply with those who gathered to hear his Easter blessing, reinforcing his message of resilience and unity for all people, despite his physical limitations.
