Pope Leo prays for Venezuela, says Christian love bears fruit through the gift of self

Pope Leo XIV reflected on the Christian meaning of love during his Angelus address on June 28, telling pilgrims that authentic discipleship requires detachment, self-giving, and hospitality rooted in a relationship with Christ.

Addressing to the faithful gathered in St. Peter's Square, the Pope reflected on the Gospel reading from Matthew (10:37–42), explaining that following Jesus is "not just a matter of outward acts, but of committing ourselves entirely to a loving relationship with him."

The Holy Father said genuine love requires "at least three things: detachment, loss and hospitality."

Reflecting on Jesus' words about loving Him above one’s family ties, Pope Leo said detachment does not diminish human relationships but allows them to reach their fullest expression through Christ.

"When the Lord begins to send his apostles on mission, he wants them to be free from any ties," he said. "However, this applies to everyone, as even the most significant relationships find their fullness through the love that Christ gives us."

He pointed to marriage and the raising of children as examples of how authentic love involves allowing others the freedom to grow. Quoting Saint Augustine, he observed that "It is painful to part from what you love," yet compared this sacrifice to a farmer who must first lose the seed before it can bear fruit.

The Pope also reflected on the paradox that love involves loss. In a culture often focused on possession and success, he said the Gospel reveals that true life is found through self-giving.

"Love only bears fruit in self-giving," he said, encouraging Christians to sacrifice time, comfort, and themselves for others. "If we live by the logic of the gift of self, we too will be capable of bringing forth new life in our relationships."

Turning to hospitality, Pope Leo said love becomes visible through "small daily gestures," recalling Jesus' words about offering even "a glass of water" to someone in need. He noted that Christ sent His disciples without provisions so they would rely on the generosity of others and inspire hospitality among those they encountered.

"By welcoming those who come in Jesus' name, we welcome him and the heavenly Father who sent him," the Pope said.

Entrusting the faithful to the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Pope Leo prayed that she would help Christians become "humble and joyful witnesses to the love of Christ."

Prayer for Venezuela

Following the Angelus, Pope Leo expressed his closeness to the people of Venezuela after recent earthquakes that caused deaths, injuries, and widespread destruction.

"I wish to express my solidarity with our Venezuelan brothers and sisters affected by the recent earthquakes," he said, assuring prayers for those who died, their families, the injured, and everyone affected by the disaster. He also thanked rescue workers and those providing humanitarian assistance.