Pope Leo XIV urged prisoners and prison officials Sunday to hold on to hope, saying no one is defined solely by their actions and that justice must be a process of repair and reconciliation.
Celebrating Mass on Gaudete Sunday in St. Peter’s Basilica, the pope said the day’s theme of joy reminds the faithful to trust that “something beautiful, something joyful, will happen.”
The liturgy coincided with the Jubilee of Hope for the prison world.
Leo recalled Pope Francis’ opening of the Holy Door at Rome’s Rebibbia prison last year, calling on the faithful to “hold the rope with the anchor of hope” and “throw open the doors of your heart.”
With the Jubilee Year of Hope ending, Leo said much remains to be done in prisons, which he described as difficult environments where even good intentions face obstacles. He stressed perseverance, saying “from every fall, one must be able to rise again.”
The pope said compassion and mercy can allow “beautiful flowers to bloom, even within prison walls.” He called the Jubilee a source of hope and joy, urging communities to foster values of sensitivity, respect and forgiveness.
Leo also acknowledged challenges such as overcrowding, limited rehabilitation programs and lack of work opportunities, but said God’s desire is that “no one be lost” and all “may be saved.”
With Christmas approaching, he reminded the faithful that “we are not alone: the Lord is near, He walks with us, and with Him by our side, something beautiful and joyful will always happen.”