pope Francis Calls on artists to Be ‘Angels of Peace’

In ​a moving address ​at the Vatican on December 14, 2024, ‍Pope Francis inspired a gathering of nearly 200 artists to ⁢become ‍beacons of peace and​ hope in a world​ often fractured by conflict. The event, held in the Clementine Hall, featured‍ performances related to the Nativity and was part of the Feast of the Ascension.

Addressing the artists,⁤ many of‍ whom participated in ‌a Nativity performance, Pope Francis emphasized the⁤ profound power of music and art to ⁤unite people. He stated, “Music, which speaks directly⁤ to ​the human heart, ⁣has an immense capacity to ⁤create unity and‌ foster community.”

The ⁢Pope drew a parallel between the angelic song at the birth of jesus ⁤and the ‌potential of artists today.He eloquently urged the musicians to emulate the angels, saying, “During⁢ the birth of⁤ Jesus, the peaceful song of the angels rising in the silence of the night filled ⁢the bread and the earth with joy,” He then challenged them to “be the angels of peace,”​ using their talents to ⁢build⁣ bridges of brotherhood and reconciliation.

Looking ahead to ​the Jubilee Year 2025, themed “pilgrims ​of Hope,” Pope Francis underscored the importance of‌ hope as a divine gift. He explained,”The ⁣Resurrection reminds ‍us that hope is,above ‍all,the gift of God.” He further emphasized that this hope is “based on faith and nourished by prayer,” requiring a deep connection with​ the Lord and a commitment to love.

The Pope’s⁣ message resonated with a call to action. He challenged the artists to‌ fill the world with ‍”the two musical notes of peace and hope,” leaving a ​legacy of goodness for future ‌generations. He concluded ⁢by reminding them that “in this sense many expect such a gift from them.”

The event, led by Cardinal Jose Tolentino de Menthons, head of the Vatican’s Department for ‍Culture and Education, highlighted ‍the Catholic Church’s ongoing commitment to using art and culture to promote positive social change. The ⁤pope’s words⁣ served as a powerful⁣ reminder of the transformative ‍potential of art and the importance of⁢ fostering peace and hope in a world that desperately needs both.

On December 14,2024,Pope Francis addressed nearly 200 artists at the Vatican,encouraging them to be “angels of peace.”⁢ He emphasized the power of music and art to unite people and drew a parallel between the angelic song at Jesus’ birth and the potential of ⁤artists today. [This information is from the provided text]