Pope Leo's Summer Angelus Draws Pilgrims to Castel Gandolfo
On July 12, 2026, Pope Leo XIV celebrated his first summer Angelus from the papal residence at Castel Gandolfo, Italy. The event attracted large crowds of pilgrims who traveled by train from Rome and beyond, filling the town square for the Sunday prayer.
Visitors included families from Slovakia, Colombia and other countries. Many described the pope as natural and welcoming, noting his gentle demeanor. In his brief homily, Leo reflected on the parable of the sower, speaking of God’s generosity and urging the faithful to find moments of quiet prayer and meditation during their summer holidays. After the Angelus, he greeted the crowd from a motorized buggy and walked through the piazza, creating an intimate atmosphere for the assembled pilgrims.