ROME – On Wednesday, Pope Leo XIV concluded the year 2025 with a heartfelt prayer for Rome, expressing hopes that the city would embrace foreigners and protect its most vulnerable residents, both young and old.

Leo led a New Year’s Eve vespers service at St. Peter’s Basilica, marking the end of a significant year. The 2025 Holy Year, celebrated every 25 years, drew millions of pilgrims to the heart of Christianity in Rome.

The Jubilee Year will officially close on January 6. During his homily, Leo extended gratitude to Rome and the numerous volunteers who facilitated the flow of visitors to St. Peter’s Basilica and its Holy Door.

Reflecting on the event’s inauguration by Pope Francis on December 24, 2024, Leo recalled the call for Rome to become more hospitable. “I hope this spirit of welcome continues and grows after this blessed time,” Leo stated.

He pondered on Rome’s future, saying, “What aspirations do we have for Rome? That it honors its children, cares for the lonely and fragile elderly, supports struggling families, and welcomes those who journey from afar in search of a dignified life.”

Among the congregation were Rome’s Mayor Roberto Gualtieri and other notable figures.

In addition to the Jubilee, 2025 was momentous because of the papal transition after Francis died in April and cardinals elected history’s first pope from the United States.

The Vatican this week released statistics showing 3.2 million people had participated in Vatican liturgies, audiences, Angelus prayers and Jubilee audiences this year. The numbers were small in the first quarter, given Francis’ long hospitalization and illness, and then greatly shot up after Leo’s May election.

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