‘Live without compromise,’ Pope says in 1st address since discharge from hospital
October 19, 2026
In his first public appearance since his discharge from Gemelli Hospital, Pope Leo XIV delivered his Sunday Angelus address (video) on October 18.
As is customary, the Pontiff reflected on the Gospel reading of the day: in this case, Matthew 22:15-21, in which Jesus taught, “Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.”
“In Jesus, we contemplate a God who is not afraid of history but comes instead to dwell within it.,” Pope Leo told the crowds gathered in St. Peter’s Square. “His Kingdom does not abolish human roles and responsibilities. It does, however, call us to live without compromise, free from selfish ambitions and unjust motives, seeking above all the Kingdom of God and his righteousness.”
Christ calls us “to be truthful, free from servile fear or hypocrisy, free to do good,” the Pope continued. “Let us pray to the Lord to help us live in this way. And let us entrust ourselves to the intercession of the Virgin Mary.”
The Pontiff then recited, in Latin, the Angelus, the Minor Doxology (three times), and the prayer for the faithful departed, before imparting his blessing.
For all current news, visit our News home page.
Further information:
- Angelus (Dicastery for Communication - Vatican Media, 10/18/26)
- Pope at Angelus: Render unto Caesar means being truthful, free to do good (Vatican News, 10/18/26)
All comments are moderated. To lighten our editing burden, only current donors are allowed to Sound Off. If you are a current donor, log in to see the comment form; otherwise please support our work, and Sound Off!
