Category: Diocese of Scranton News

WILKES-BARRE – Nearly 400 Catholic men from across the Diocese of Scranton and beyond gathered on Saturday, Oct. 4, 2025, at Holy Redeemer High School for the 10th annual “Be A Catholic Man” Conference.

Participants said the day provided them with a chance for spiritual renewal, brotherhood, and the opportunity to step away from the noise of daily life and step deeper into their identity as followers of Jesus Christ.

The day began with the Rosary and included Eucharistic Adoration, the Sacrament of Reconciliation, food, and fellowship, and more than a dozen exhibitors featuring Catholic organizations and religious artwork.

“They call it a retreat and that is what it is,” Gary Morgiewicz from Warwick, N.Y., said. “God is going to speak to us most clearly and loudly at a place like this, where we put everything aside and concentrate and focus on what is important, family and faith, and that is why I’m here.”

Thaddeus Zielinski, a parishioner of Saint Ann Basilica Parish in Scranton and long-time conference attendee, added, “There is nothing like hearing 400 men say the ‘Our Father’ at one time. It’s very powerful.”

The conference theme, “Christ is King,” was central to each of the speakers’ powerful messages.

Author and theologian Mike Aquilina, a native of nearby Kingston, opened the day with a call to model authentic Christian masculinity through sacrificial love.

“Christ, Our King, laid down his life for the sake of His subjects and so must we. We must live the love that he modeled for us,” Aquilina said, urging men to place Christ above all else – even above family – so that their homes may flourish under God’s reign.

Through stories of his own father, he painted a vivid picture of love expressed through hard work, service, and presence.

“We need to share our lives with our families. Put away the phones. Put away the games,” he added. “We need to share our lives with others, through friendship and neighborliness.”

Father Charles Connor, Diocesan priest, author, and Church historian, challenged attendees to rediscover the strength and courage of the Catholic man in 2025.

“We have a gift that proportionally few people have been lucky enough to receive in life,” Father Connor said. Quoting Saint John Henry Newman, who will be made a Doctor of the Church on Nov. 1, he added, “The true Catholic, Christian gentleman is a warrior. Not because he loves the fight, but because he loves the truth.”

Drawing from history and saints like Saint Joseph, Father Connor reminded the audience that fidelity to the truth and holiness might be countercultural – but are necessary.

“Saint Joseph shows us the characteristics of authentic fatherhood,” he added. “Every one of us men can learn from him.”

The final speaker was David Bereit, founder of the international 40 Days for Life movement. A convert to Catholicism, Bereit shared how answering God’s call led him from sales into pro-life advocacy.

“The King is calling – the question is, will we answer?” he asked. “The change that is needed in our world today may be sitting in this auditorium here today. Is it you? If it’s not you – then who?”

A deeply moving moment of the conference came when family members of the late Attorney Glenn Yanik was honored with a commemorative plaque. Yanik was one of the original founders of the conference and served as co-chair for several years.

“We honor him as a great Catholic man, husband, father, grandfather, and mentor to many,” Dr. Lou Guarineri said during the presentation. “His legacy will live on in all of us.”

The day concluded with a Pontifical Mass offered by the Most Rev. Joseph C. Bambera, Bishop of Scranton, who delivered a homily tying the day’s mission to Respect Life Sunday.

Acknowledging the growing secularism in society, the Bishop urged the men to be light in the darkness.

“We must enliven our words with action. We must both choose and serve life – life in the womb, life that is found on the margins of our world and even life that struggles to respect and reverence others,” Bishop Bambera said.

Citing Jesus’ words in the Gospel and Pope Leo’s call to defend life from the unborn to the elderly, the Bishop concluded by saying, “Christ our King will reign and the vision of his Gospel of life and salvation will continue to be a source of hope for our world when you and I discover and accept our responsibility as Christian men to live, to love, to forgive, and to serve as Christ.”

As the conference concluded, many men said they left with something deeper than they came in with.

“You almost want to run out the door as a warrior for Jesus,” Joseph DeGraba, a first-time attendee from Saint Therese Parish in Shavertown, said. “The speakers have been excellent. There is a brotherhood, a camaraderie, where everybody is feeling the same thing and getting together with one purpose.”

Zielinski summed it up even more succinctly.

“Refreshed … walking proud to be a Catholic,” he stated.

SCRANTON – The Catholic Foundation for the Diocese of Scranton is pleased to announce the appointment of Paul H. Rooney, Jr. to its Board of Directors effective Aug. 20, 2025.

Rooney, a longtime banking executive and community leader from Williamsport, brings nearly four decades of leadership experience and a deep commitment to faith-based service to the Foundation’s growing mission.

“I am very honored to have been asked to be a part of the Catholic Foundation for the Diocese of Scranton,” Rooney said. “I believe the Foundation is the long-term answer to the viability of our Diocese. Our success will depend on strategic planning, commitment and support of board members, parishioners, priests, and administration.”

Rooney joins the Board at a pivotal moment, as the Catholic Foundation continues to expand its impact by building and managing endowments that will sustain Catholic ministries across the 11 counties of the Diocese of Scranton.

Established to ensure the long-term support for the spiritual, educational, and charitable needs of the Diocese, the Foundation works to create lasting legacies that will serve the Church of Scranton for generations to come.

Rooney’s career in banking spans more than 37 years, with senior leadership roles at institutions including Sovereign Bank, Sun Bank, and Banco Santander. He is currently the principal of Paul H. Rooney Jr. Consulting, L.L.C., helping businesses grow through strategic planning and community engagement. In addition to his professional achievements, Rooney has also served on numerous nonprofit and charitable boards.

For several decades, Rooney has been an active supporter of Catholic education. He has been instrumental in leading fundraising efforts for Saint John Neumann Regional Academy in Williamsport.

“In order for us to sustain our ministries now and in the future, dollars will be needed,” he noted. “I have been involved with promoting and raising money supporting Saint John Neumann for the past 18 years. Dollars raised assisted needy families with the cost of tuition.”

As a resident of Lycoming County, Rooney brings vital regional representation to the Catholic Foundation Board, and he is eager to help raise awareness of its mission in the western part of the Diocese.

“The challenge is that every nonprofit, school and public organization has a foundation,” Rooney acknowledged. “Everyone is chasing the same dollars. We need to make our Foundation the preferred charity of choice to potential donors. We need to utilize contacts like attorneys, accountants, and insurance agents who could influence those in their estate planning. This is a huge opportunity. We need to involve people who know people, are passionate about their faith, and not afraid to make a referral or ask for money.”

Mark DiPippa, the recently appointed Executive Director of the Catholic Foundation, welcomed Rooney’s appointment, citing his extensive financial background and grassroots fundraising experience as strong assets to the Board.

“Paul’s ability to combine business expertise with a heart for mission perfectly aligns with the goals of the Foundation,” DiPippa said. “His commitment to Catholic education and his leadership in the Williamsport community will help expand our message and mission.”

The Catholic Foundation for the Diocese of Scranton supports a wide range of ministries through the creation and stewardship of endowment funds. These funds provide lasting financial support for parishes, Catholic schools, seminarian formation, retired priests, Catholic Social Services, and more. As a separately incorporated entity, the Foundation ensures that gifts are managed according to Catholic moral and ethical principles, with professional oversight and donor intent at the forefront.

To learn more about the Catholic Foundation visit catholicfoundationscranton.org or contact Mark DiPippa at (570) 207-2212 or MDiPippa@catholicfoundationscranton.org.

 

WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Wednesday, Oct. 1, 2025, more than 600 pilgrims from the Diocese of Scranton made a sacred journey to the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C. as part of a Jubilee Year of Hope pilgrimage.

The pilgrimage brought together faithful from all corners of the Diocese’s 11 counties. Twelve buses carried groups from dozens of parishes – ten departing early that morning and two others arriving from overnight trips. Many others traveled by car, all drawn together by a desire to be together in faith, fellowship, and prayer.

The National Shrine – reverently called “Mary’s House” – is the largest Catholic church in North America and among the ten largest in the world.

With more than 80 chapels and oratories honoring the Blessed Virgin Mary under various titles, the National Shrine reflects not only the cultural diversity of the United States but the universality of the Catholic Church.

Upon arrival, pilgrims were welcomed by Rev. Monsignor Vito A. Buonanno, Director of Pilgrimages for the Shrine, who urged the faithful to allow Mary to be their model and guide for the day.

“From the moment you enter this magnificent edifice, the sign of the Blessed Mother is present,” he explained.

Pilgrims spent the late morning and early afternoon touring the Basilica, praying at its chapels, and taking part in the Sacrament of Reconciliation. At 2:00 p.m., Diocesan pilgrims gathered for a Eucharistic Holy Hour with the Rosary, followed by a Pontifical Mass celebrated by the Most Rev. Joseph C. Bambera, Bishop of Scranton, in the Upper Church.

‘WE MOVE FORWARD WITH HOPE’

In his homily for the Pilgrimage, Bishop Bambera called pilgrims to deepen their trust in God’s promises – especially through the example of the Blessed Mother.

“What a blessed day this has been as we’ve journeyed here, to Mary’s house, in celebration of the great Jubilee Year of Hope. I’m grateful to be with all of you on this pilgrimage,” Bishop Bambera began by saying.

Quoting Pope Francis and Pope Leo XIV, Bishop Bambera reminded the faithful that Christian hope is not naïve optimism, but a living trust in God’s love – a hope that “does not disappoint.” He drew from Saint Paul’s Letter to the Romans, proclaiming that “our hope rests solely upon God’s saving action realized in his Son, Jesus Christ.”

Preaching both in English and Spanish, the Bishop turned often to Mary’s example as the “threshold of hope.”

In a world “fraught with suffering and pain,” Bishop Bambera said, it is Mary’s posture of trust and openness that shows each believer how to live in hope.

“Her willingness to say ‘yes’ to God’s plan to bring salvation to his people is rooted in a faith so strong that it establishes the parameters for authentic discipleship down through the ages, even to our own,” he said.

Looking out at all of the pilgrims, the Bishop invited each one to find their place in God’s plan of hope – whether they are young people jugging life and faith, parents forming their children, the elderly, immigrants, or those burdened by regret.

“God uses us as we are,” he said, “when we open our hearts to him and trust.”

As he concluded, the Bishop urged pilgrims to move forward with hope, “knowing that God is with us all our days, even until the end of the age.”

PILGRIMS SHARE THEIR JOY

As he toured the Basilica, Edward Facciani of Saint John Vianney Parish in Montdale reflected on the beauty and theological richness of the side chapels.

“They give us a wonderful historical opportunity to view our whole salvific history. I found that really striking,” he said. “And, of course, the Crypt is magnificent. I really love spending time down there.”

His wife and first-time visitor Bernice Facciani felt personally called to come on the pilgrimage.

“The Lord has been trying to teach me a little bit more about Mary and when I heard that the Diocese was coming here, I thought it was a place I needed to come,” Bernice stated.

Bernice found herself thinking about all of the people who built the Basilica out of love for the Lord.

“It’s a gift that they gave to the rest of us,” she said, adding, “You could spend three days here and still not see everything there is to see in the Basilica itself.”

Karen Bernavage of Saint Catherine of Siena Parish in Moscow was also overwhelmed by the beauty of everything she took in during her tour.

“The amount of statues, the prayers on the wall. Everything about it, it just goes on and on,” she stated. “It gives you a feeling of warmth.”

Bernavage said she was happy she toured the Basilica as part of a large group.
“When everybody comes together, it makes it like a family because you’ve all experienced it together,” she added.

‘LET HOPE SPREAD’

Monsignor Walter R. Rossi, Rector of the Basilica and a priest of the Diocese of Scranton, expressed his joy at welcoming the faithful to Washington, D.C.

He noted that the Diocese of Scranton has made pilgrimages to the Basilica since 1973.

“For the past five decades, the Diocese has continued to make pilgrimages to Mary’s Shrine, especially during significant moments in the life of the Diocesan Church as well as the Church universal, as you are today, in celebration of the Jubilee Year of Hope,” he noted.

“I am thrilled that we have over 20 priests joining us this day,” Monsignor Rossi added. “Through the intercession of Mary, may the power of love fill your life this day and all days.”

After taking a group photo on the steps of the Basilica, pilgrims boarded their buses to return home.

Bishop Bambera hopes their pilgrimage serves as a powerful reminder that the Church is alive – and united – in hope.

“Let us now be drawn to this great hope,” the Bishop said, echoing Pope Leo’s Jubilee message. “And through our witness, may hope spread to all those who anxiously seek it.”

SCRANTON – Faithful from across the Diocese of Scranton gathered at the Cathedral of Saint Peter on Sunday, Oct. 5, 2025, for the annual Respect Life Mass, marking the 27th Sunday in Ordinary Time and the national observance of Respect Life Sunday.

The Mass was celebrated by the Most Rev. Joseph C. Bambera, Bishop of Scranton, who reflected in his homily on this year’s theme, “Life: Our Sign of Hope!” – part of the Church’s Jubilee Year of Hope.

“Every human life is a precious gift from God, especially the most vulnerable,” Bishop Bambera said, calling the faithful to action in building a culture of life. “We cannot merely speak of our respect for human life … We must enliven our words with action.”

While acknowledging ongoing challenges in defending life – from the unborn to the elderly – Bishop Bambera emphasized that Catholics are called to be “light in the midst of darkness” and to promote mercy, healing, and hope through ministries that serve those in need, like Catholic Social Services of the Diocese of Scranton.

The Respect Life Sunday Mass was broadcast by CTV: Catholic Television and is available to view on the Diocese of Scranton YouTube channel and Diocesan website at dioceseofscranton.org.

SCRANTON – Members of the legal, judicial, and governmental communities gathered at the Cathedral of Saint Peter on Oct. 3, 2025, for the Diocese of Scranton’s annual Red Mass.

The Most Rev. Joseph C. Bambera, Bishop of Scranton, served as principal celebrant, with Rev. Paul A. McDonnell, O.S.J., delivering the homily.

The Red Mass – rooted in a tradition dating back to 13th century Europe – invokes the Holy Spirit’s guidance for those who serve in law and public service.

This year’s liturgy marked the 52nd celebration of the Red Mass in the Diocese of Scranton.

During the Mass, Bar Association members prayed in a special way for local attorneys who have passed away over the last year.

EAST STROUDSBURG – The auditorium of Notre Dame Jr./Sr. High School was filled with music and energy on Sept. 27, 2025, as more than 200 young Catholics gathered for the third annual Diocesan Youth Rally.

Teens from across the Diocese of Scranton – representing more than 20 parishes – came together for a day packed with powerful speakers, breakout sessions, Eucharistic Adoration, and Mass celebrated by the Most Rev. Joseph C. Bambera, Bishop of Scranton.

The Diocesan Youth Rally, which is open to students in grades 7-12, is quickly becoming a highlight for youth ministry groups. Participants say this year’s event did not disappoint.

“It’s an incredible act of evangelization,” keynote speaker Dan Harms, a dynamic Catholic performer and inspirational speaker, explained. “It is a marker on the map towards changing a culture. It is a marker on the map towards giving all these kids a reference point for what their lived experience of faith can be.”

Harms brought a blend of storytelling, interactive skits, and musical icebreakers to the event. His message? Hope isn’t wishful thinking – it’s rooted in the unshakeable promises of God.

“I always like to emphasize joy and hope. Today, our theme is ‘Anchored in Hope,’ so we’re talking about the hope that we find in our faith,” he added.

Headlining the music for the Youth Rally were the Scally Brothers, a high-energy duo from Ohio known for their deep faith and infectious beats.

“Music is the invitation that invites people to break down walls,” Jake Scally said. “When you have music, it might relate to someone in a special way – a melody, a bass drop, a guitar lick or a drum solo, and then they start to listen to the lyrics that point to Christ.”

Music has so much power,” Zach Scally added. “When you merge that with the power of the Gospel, you ultimately have the power to change somebody’s life forever.”

For many students, the concert was a highlight of the day.

“The Scally Brothers have a lot of great music, and they just show a great example of how to worship God,” Connor Cinoski, a participant from Saint Jude Parish in Mountain Top, said.

Beyond the music and messages, what made the Diocesan Youth Rally truly impactful was the opportunity for young people to build real relationships – with God and with one another.

“Social media can make young people feel isolated,” Harms said. “To be able to come together and have an experience with a few hundred other Catholic teens is really impactful.”

The Diocese of Scranton is already looking forward to welcoming even more youth for the Fourth Annual Diocesan Youth Rally, scheduled for Nov. 7, 2026. Mark your calendars now and stay anchored in hope!

LARKSVILLE – Parishioners of Saint John the Baptist Parish in Larksville came together on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025, for a long-awaited Mass celebrating 125 years of faith, family, and their church community.

Originally planned for 2024, the Anniversary Mass was postponed so the parish could wait for their pastor, Father Gerald J. Gurka, to recover from eye surgery.

“We have some really great seeds of faith planted here and growing,” Father Gurka said.

The Most Rev. Joseph C. Bambera, Bishop of Scranton, was principal celebrant and homilist for the Anniversary Mass. Many parishioners described his homily as especially moving.

“Bishop hit it out of the park for me,” parishioner Paula Yozwiak shared. “I even choked up a little bit sitting there, remembering everything that has gone on in my family – the good, the bad. I’m just grateful to be here.”

Lifelong parishioner Charles Prohaska, 85, is hopeful that young people will continue to be involved in parish life.

“It is a great parish. It’s a very welcoming parish,” he said. “My hope is parishioners, especially the young ones, will take part in everything that we do here.”

The Anniversary Mass brought back a keen sense of tradition and history for parishioners.

Michael Novrocki, a fourth-generation parishioner, said the Anniversary Mass held a lot of personal significance.

“My family history goes back to 1903 so today is a particular moment of pride for me and my family,” he said.

“I wrote the history (of the parish) for the 100th anniversary back in 1999 and I just did an update for the 125th anniversary,” Novrocki added.

Novrocki recalled the early sacrifices of the Polish immigrants who founded the parish in 1898, including building a new church after the original was lost to fire.

“The parish really banded together, rolled up their sleeves and they each contributed $75 to the construction of the new church,” he said.

As the community looks to the future, many say the spirit of Saint John the Baptist Parish remains strong.

“My hope is that people remain faithful and inspire others to be faithful and go to church, and be active in their church and community,” Yozwiak said.

 

WILKES-BARRE – With deep gratitude for their decades of faithful service, three long-time educators in the Diocese of Scranton Catholic School System were recognized with the Saint John Paul II Award during the Diocesan Teachers’ Institute Mass on Sept. 29, 2025.

This year’s recipients are Colleen Gatrone and Kimberly Kanuik of Holy Cross High School in Dunmore, and Barbara Greenway of Saint John Neumann Elementary School in Williamsport.

The Saint John Paul II Award is given annually to educators who have dedicated 25 years of service to Catholic education in the Diocese of Scranton. The award honors the legacy of Saint John Paul II, who inspired generations with his unwavering faith, commitment to young people, and deep love for the Church.

For Gatrone, the award is a milestone in a vocation that has spanned far more than the 25 years she has been in the Diocese of Scranton. In total, she has spent a total of 40 years in Catholic education.

“I appreciate the Diocese, I appreciate the students with whom I’ve worked. I’ve taught at a number of schools in our Diocese, and I really do appreciate the support that we get,” Gatrone said.

Prior to her current position at Holy Cross High School, Gatrone also served at Bishop O’Reilly, Bishop Hoban, and Holy Redeemer. She says the secret to her longevity is simple.

“It’s the students, it’s the parents, it’s the families, and it’s the atmosphere,” she said. “I absolutely love coming in every single day. They make me feel young and it is the important part of my day – coming in and seeing their faces. It is all the motivation I need for the day.”

For Kanuik, who also teaches at Holy Cross, the award is a humbling reminder of how far her journey has come since first being at Bishop Hannan High School.

“It means a lot. As a child, I always knew I wanted to be a teacher,” Kanuik said. “Being at Holy Cross – I know I’m blessed. My students have been fantastic.”

Kanuik teaches freshman history, AP History, and AP Government, a schedule she has held for the past decade. She proudly pointed out that one of her former students, Father Tom Dzwonczyk, read the Gospel at the Diocesan Teachers’ Institute Mass.

Reflecting on her decision to stay in Catholic schools, Kanuik said, “I have many friends who teach in public schools and their experiences aren’t the same. They’re counting the days to retirement, whereas I’m blessed to go to work every day.”

Greenway’s journey into Catholic education was born out of personal conversion.
“Saint John Paul II is the reason why I’m Catholic,” she explained.

Greenway, who has worked primarily with elementary students and taught art, is currently serving in Saint John Neumann’s Champions After-Care Program. She said she is inspired daily by all her colleagues.

“I respect all of them,” she said. “I may get this honor, but it is for everybody.”

WILKES-BARRE – Catholic school educators from across the Diocese of Scranton came together on Monday, Sept. 29, 2025, for the annual Diocesan Teachers’ Institute.

The purpose of the day is two-fold – to both spiritually ground and professionally nourish the educators who serve 4,500 students in our 19 Catholic schools.

Held on the Feasts of Saints Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael, the day began with a Mass celebrated by the Most Rev. Joseph C. Bambera, Bishop of Scranton, at Holy Redeemer High School.

In his homily, Bishop Bambera reminded the educators that just as the archangels are messengers of God’s healing and love, they too are called to be instruments of God’s grace.

“Our primary focus – as educators, administrators, clergy and as Christians – must be centered less upon on our own needs and plans and far more upon the lives that God entrusts to us in the work that we’ve been given to do,” the Bishop said.

Echoing the Diocesan Catholic School System’s mission to educate the whole child spiritually and academically, Bishop Bambera reminded the educators that their work is sacred and transformative.

“Like the angels who engage us along our journey of life, imparting to us healing, meaning and hope through God’s mercy and grace, continue to be signs of hope, grace and love to our children and families,” he added. “We are so grateful and blessed by your dedication.”

Following the Mass, educators were inspired by keynote speaker Sister Mary Persico, IHM, Ed.D., President Emerita, and Director of Special Projects at Marywood University.

Her talk, titled “Catholic School Culture: Neither An Accident Nor an Option,” challenged educators to be intentional about shaping school culture through faith-filled action and storytelling.

“The culture of Catholic Schools in this country is one of the most needed and compelling ideologies in the world today,” Sister Persico said.

She spoke passionately about how today’s students are spiritually hungry – seeking purpose and meaning in a fast-paced world. Teachers, she said, are in a unique position to walk with them in that search.

“They long for the Holy, the sacred, the spiritual,” she added.

After lunch, the afternoon portion of the day featured breakout sessions tailored to grade levels and subject areas. The workshops allowed teachers to collaborate, share best practices, and gain new insights as they returned to their classrooms with renewed focus.

VATICAN CITY (CNS) – Power, possessions and rank do not satisfy the deep desire for real meaning in life, Pope Leo XIV said.

“It is only the resurrected Jesus who can give the true and lasting peace that sustains and fills us,” the pope said in English Oct. 15 during his weekly general audience in St. Peter’s Square.

“We are not truly satisfied with achievements and passing certainties of this world,” he said, “because we are created in the image and likeness of God and through the power of the Holy Spirit we recognize an inexhaustible longing in our hearts for something more.”

Greeting Polish-speaking visitors during the audience, the pope said he was joining them in asking for the intercession of St. John Paul II, whose feast day is Oct. 22.

Calling the Polish-born pope a “witness of hope and guide of young people,” Pope Leo prayed: “May he inspire teachers, catechists and educators to collaborate with parents in forming the consciences of the new generations.”

Before the general audience, the pope received a 12-year-old silver-gray purebred Arabian horse as a gift from a Polish-born horse breeder. Video showed Pope Leo holding its reins and comfortably leading the horse by its bridle in a small courtyard inside Vatican City. The pope often traveled by horse when serving as a missionary in Peru.

The horse, named Proton, was raised at a stud farm in Poland, the Vatican press office said in a statement. Sired by Kahil Al Shaqab, a renowned stallion and show horse, Proton’s maternal grandfather is Hlayyil Ramadan, a world Arabian horse champion, who was born and bred in Jordan by Princess Alia Al-Hussein.

Meanwhile, in his ongoing series of audience talks on the Jubilee theme, “Jesus Christ our Hope,” Pope Leo reflected on how Christ’s resurrection fulfills the desires of every human heart.

“We live busy lives, we concentrate on achieving results, and we even attain lofty, prestigious goals,” he said in his main address in Italian.

“We would like to be happy, and yet it is very difficult to be happy in a continuous way, without any shadows,” he said. “We feel deep down that we are always missing something.”

However, he said, “we were not created for lack, but for fullness, to rejoice in life, and life in abundance.”

“This deep desire in our hearts can find its ultimate answer not in roles, not in power, not in having, but in the certainty that there is someone who guarantees this constitutive impulse of our humanity; in the awareness that this expectation will not be disappointed or thwarted,” the pope said.

The risen Jesus “is the wellspring that satisfies our thirst, the infinite thirst for fullness that the Holy Spirit imbues into our hearts,” he said. “Indeed, the resurrection of Christ is not a simple event of human history, but the event that transformed it from within.”

Just like water quenches thirst, refreshes, irrigates and renders fertile “what would otherwise remain barren,” he said, “the Risen One is the living wellspring” that always “stays pure and ready for anyone who is thirsty.”

Only Jesus “responds to the deepest questions of our heart: is there really a destination for us? Does our existence have any meaning? And the suffering of so many innocents, how can it be redeemed?” he said.

“The risen Jesus does not bestow upon us an answer ‘from above,’ but becomes our companion on this often arduous, painful and mysterious journey,” he said. “Only He can fill our empty flask when our thirst becomes unbearable.”

Jesus is also “the destination of our journey. Without his love, the voyage of life would become wandering without a goal, a tragic mistake with a missed destination,” he said.

Human beings are “fragile creatures,” who make mistakes, Pope Leo said. But the faithful can “rise again” with the help of the Risen One who “guarantees our arrival, leading us home, where we are awaited, loved, saved.”

To journey with Jesus “means to experience being sustained despite everything, to have our thirst quenched and to be refreshed in the hardships and struggles that, like heavy stones, threaten to block or divert our history,” he said.

“In a world struggling with fatigue and despair, let us be signs of hope, peace and joy of the risen Christ,” he added.