Pope Leon XIV calls for daily contemplation in Angelus homily

On the twelfth Sunday of Ordinary Time, Pope Leon XIV appeared from the Apostolic Palace balcony to lead the Angelus prayer at St. Peter’s Square. Before the prayer, he reflected on the Gospel of Matthew, reminding the faithful that “what we hear in the secret of the heart must be proclaimed from the rooftops.” He emphasized that the strength of the apostolate lies not in techniques or media but in the action of the Holy Spirit and authentic personal response. The Pope urged believers to set aside moments of quiet each day, saying that such contemplation makes them “credible and free apostles” able to share the light of the Gospel in every circumstance, even where it is rejected. He noted that many Christians worldwide face hostility and persecution, and urged perseverance, love, and humility as the way to remain faithful to Jesus’ teachings.