Pope Leo XIV tells Vatican employees' families they are 'a great miracle'
The pope spoke to hundreds of families in the Vatican Gardens on September 5 at the Family Feast, now in its third year. He said giving life and giving love are the two great miracles found in the family
Pope Leo XIV addressed the families of Vatican employees on September 5 in the Vatican Gardens, during the Family Feast organized by the Governorate of Vatican City State. In his remarks, the pope recalled the words of St. John Paul II, who said that "the family is the mirror of God," and stressed that "God wants to see himself in our community, in our family."
During the event the pope spoke lightheartedly with the children present, referring to a popular social media meme. "This summer many have learned a little math. What is six-seven?" he asked, drawing laughter from those present. He imitated the gesture with his hands, and it was well received by both adults and children.
Gathering in the Vatican Gardens
The crowd waited in silence for the pope. At 7 p.m. technicians were preparing for his arrival, and when he appeared he was greeted with applause and music dedicated to St. Francis. Now in its third year, the event brought together hundreds of families, among them those who had taken part in the Vatican Summer Center. The families enjoyed games, shows and food.
The family as a miracle of life and love
The pope stressed the importance of the family as a "miracle," saying that "giving life" and "giving love" are the two great miracles found in the family. "I want to thank all of you, your families, for this great miracle that you are," he said, urging those present to see their families as a reflection of God's love.
Sister Raffaella Petrini, president of the Governorate, thanked the pope and reaffirmed the commitment to serve him in his mission. The pope also thanked the organizers of the event, including Father Franco Fontana, coordinator of the Governorate's chaplains, and Cardinals Giuseppe Bertello and Fernando Vérgez Alzaga, who attended.
Greeting the families
Closing his remarks, the pope said he hoped the celebration would be a "mirror of God's love," and invited everyone to experience the joy that only God can offer. He then went over to the crowd and greeted children and adults, including people in wheelchairs.
The pope said goodbye with a "ciao" from the steps of the Governorate.
