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A moment of joy in the Sistine Chapel
Baptism is a fundamental rite in the life of every Christian, and this year, in the evocative Sistine Chapel, Pope Francis administered the sacrament to 21 newborns, children of Vatican employees and the Swiss Guards. During the celebration, the Pontiff underlined the importance of this moment, inviting parents to ensure that their children feel comfortable and loved. “If they are hungry, breastfeed them, so that they do not cry,” he urged, highlighting the need to take care of the little ones with love and dedication.
The meaning of baptism
Baptism represents not only entry into the Christian community, but also a gift of faith that parents and the Church offer to children. “Today, each of you, parents, and the Church herself give the greatest gift: the gift of faith to children,” the Pope said. This rite, which takes place under Michelangelo’s frescoes, is a moment of great spiritual significance, where the cries of newborns mingle with prayers and songs of joy. The ceremony was officiated with great simplicity, as a gesture of humility and closeness to the faithful.
An invitation to reflection
During the Angelus, Pope Francis invited everyone to reflect on their baptism experience, asking the faithful to remember the date of their sacrament. “Let us celebrate the date as a new birthday: that of birth in the Spirit of God,” he urged. This invitation is not only a reminder, but also a way to rediscover the importance of faith in daily life. Furthermore, the Pope prayed for young couples, so that they can welcome the gift of children and bring them to baptism, underlining the importance of the family in transmitting the faith.
A message of peace and hope
In addition to the celebration of the baptism, the Pontiff also expressed his closeness to those who are facing difficulties, such as the inhabitants of Los Angeles County, affected by devastating fires. He also recalled the recent beatification of Don Giovanni Merlini, a priest known for his commitment to missions and his dedication to peace. “Let us not forget that war is always a defeat,” he reiterated, drawing attention to the need to pray for peace in Ukraine and throughout the world.