Pope Leo XIV joins the audience at the Vatican’s “Concert with the Poor” in the Paul VI Hall and expresses his pleasure to be able to partake in the joy of listening to music, which is “not a luxury for the few, but a divine gift accessible to everyone.”
By Linda Bordoni
Saturday evening was special in the Vatican as Pope Leo XIV welcomed artists, volunteers, and more than 3,000 guests of honour – vulnerable and marginalised men and women in need of different nationalities, languages, and religions – who filled the Paul VI Hall for the sixth “Concert with the Poor.”
Greeting participants and guests at the conclusion of the event organised by the Dicastery for the Service of Charity and in collaboration with the Diocese of Rome and a host of associations and groups that care for the poor, this 2025 edition featured international artist Michael Bublè, together with his band, the Choir of the Diocese of Rome, conducted by Monsignor Marco Frisina, and the Nova Opera orchestra.
The Pope sat back throughout the concert smiling, clearly enjoying the music, clapping with enthusiasm at the conclusion of every song and even singing along with Michael B.
pope Francis on Music: A Bridge to God and Preparation for Christ’s Coming
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Pope Francis has reflected on the profound spiritual significance of music, describing it as a “bridge that leads us to God” and emphasizing its importance in preparing hearts for the coming of Christ during Advent. His remarks came ahead of the 6th edition of the Vatican’s Concert with the poor,scheduled for december 6th.
Music as a Divine Gift
Canadian singer and songwriter Michael Bublé, participating in the event, shared his belief that “music is a gift from God.” Pope Francis echoed this sentiment, highlighting music’s ability to transmit deep emotions and connect humanity with the divine. He stated that music lifts “feelings, emotions, even the deepest stirrings of the soul…transforming them into an imaginary stairway connecting earth and heaven.”
Beyond Distraction: Recognizing Our Identity
The Pope stressed that music isn’t simply a distraction from suffering, but a powerful reminder of our inherent dignity.”We are not just this: we are far more than our problems and our troubles, we are God’s beloved children!” he declared. This outlook underscores the power of music to offer solace and reaffirm our spiritual worth.
Christmas and the Tradition of Song
Pope Francis also drew attention to the integral role music plays in the celebration of Christmas.He noted the abundance of conventional songs in every language and culture surrounding the holiday, suggesting that “this Mystery could not be celebrated without music, without hymns of praise.” This tradition, he implied, reflects a deep-seated human need to express reverence and joy through song.
Preparing Hearts for Advent
Concluding his reflections, Pope Francis invited everyone to use the season of Advent as a time of preparation for the coming of Christ. He urged listeners to avoid being weighed down by selfish concerns and instead focus on attentiveness to others and those in need. He encouraged a readiness to embrace “the song of God’s love, which is Jesus Christ,” emphasizing that “Jesus is God’s song of love for humanity.”
The Pope’s message serves as a powerful reminder of music’s capacity to inspire faith, foster compassion, and deepen our connection with the divine, particularly during the Advent season.
date:2023-12-01 19:34:00 (Updated to reflect current date and ensure relevance)
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