Overview
- At the final general audience of 2025, he said the year was scarred by the devastation of war and by the April death of the beloved Pope Francis.
- He called the faithful to reflect on God's gifts, make an honest examination of conscience, and entrust themselves to Divine Providence.
- He praised the Holy Year opened by Francis, noting millions of pilgrims crossed the Holy Door in Rome, and confirmed he will close the Jubilee on January 6.
- Before the audience he circled a crowded St. Peter's Square in the popemobile, blessing children and greeting pilgrims, including 35 Palestinian youths.
- The day’s schedule included an evening Mass in St. Peter's Basilica with the traditional Te Deum hymn of thanksgiving.