A previously unseen video message from Pope Francis, recorded shortly before his hospitalization, teaches the importance of listening.
Released by Italian magazine Oggi one day after his funeral, the late Pope directly addresses young participants in Italy’s “Listening Workshops,” encouraging a deeper understanding of others.
In the video, recorded at his Casa Santa Marta residence on January 8, Pope Francis says listening is fundamental to peace and human connection. He urges young people to listen to their grandparents, recognizing the wisdom and valuable lessons older generations provide.
“Dear boys and girls, one of the most important things in life is to listen—to learn how to listen,” Pope Francis said. He said to wait patiently until others finish speaking, cautioning against formulating responses prematurely.
Pope Francis also observed a common tendency among people to interrupt or respond prematurely during conversations, an approach he cautioned “doesn’t help peace.”
“Look closely at people—people don’t listen. Halfway through an explanation, they’ll answer,” he said. “Listen—listen a lot.”
The video was published amidst the Jubilee of Teenagers, which saw around 200,000 attendees in Rome.
Pope Francis passed away on April 21, at age 88, following a prolonged illness. On May 7th, the cardinal-electors will begin the conclave to select his successor.
Watch below:
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