Pope Leo XIV joined pupils of the Pontifical Paul VI School of Castel Gandolfo for the eleventh edition of the school’s Christmas concert, InCanto, calling on children to share the gift of love and foster peace and unity during the festive season.
The Pope arrived from Villa Barberini and attended the concert alongside the Bishop of Albano, Monsignor Vincenzo Viva, and Monsignor Giordano Piccinotti, President of the Administration of the Patrimony of the Apostolic See. The gymnasium was filled with students, families, and school staff, creating a warm, festive atmosphere as the pupils performed Christmas carols in Italian, Latin, English, and Spanish, including classics like Adeste Fideles, Joy to the World, Noël Noël, and Astro del Ciel.
Reflecting on the performances, Pope Leo XIV highlighted that Christmas awakens joy and peace in the hearts of all and reminded the children that true richness is measured by the peace they generate within themselves and in their relationships with others.
“God wished to communicate to all of us the gift of love: this is what Christmas is,” he said. “For us, this is a great invitation to proclaim peace, love, and unity in the world, not only during these days but throughout the year.”
The Pope praised the children for conveying love through their music, echoing Saint Augustine’s teaching that “the one who loves sings.” He encouraged them to open their hearts to God’s presence, particularly in the smallest and most vulnerable, and concluded by offering a blessing to the children and their families.
The visit ended with applause, gifts, and a commemorative photograph. The Pontifical Paul VI School, inaugurated by Pope Paul VI in 1968, currently educates around 300 pupils, offering a Catholic-based curriculum enriched by music, sports, languages, and civic education.
Credit: Vatican News
Comment here