As part of the 90th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Guatemala and the Holy See, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, on an official visit to the country, presided over a Mass on August 2 at the Metropolitan Cathedral, where he called for a renewed commitment to human dignity, justice, and the common good.
In the presence of civil, diplomatic, and ecclesiastical authorities, as well as numerous faithful, the Vatican Secretary of State conveyed the greetings of Pope Leo XIV. “I wish to convey to you the affectionate greetings of His Holiness, Pope Leo XIV, who keeps you very much in his thoughts,” he said at the beginning of the celebration, also assuring the Guatemalan people of the Pontiff’s closeness and blessing.
The Secretary of State of the Vatican highlighted that his visit is framed within two significant anniversaries of great significance: the nine decades of diplomatic relations between Guatemala and the Holy See and the fourth centenary of the birth of Saint Peter of San José Betancur.
A call to respond to material and spiritual hunger
The cardinal focused part of his reflection on the longing for fulfillment that resides in every person. "Only God can satisfy the deepest hunger of the human being. And not only the hunger for bread, but also the thirst for meaning, for love, for hope, the thirst for a full life," he asserted.
The cardinal stated that proclaiming the Gospel leads the Church to reach out to all people, especially those facing situations of suffering. In light of this, he emphasized that this mission requires working toward a more just and compassionate society, putting aside indifference, inequality, and corruption.
During his reflection, the Secretary of State affirmed that Jesus’ command, “Give them something to eat,” remains as relevant as ever. On the contrary, he noted that today it calls for a response rooted in solidarity in the face of the many forms of poverty, exclusion, and neglect.
Sharing the little to transform reality
The Vatican representative maintained that, in the face of the world’s great challenges, the Gospel encourages us to generously offer whatever each person has at their disposal. Recalling the five loaves and two fish, he affirmed that the miracle begins when those small gifts are placed in God’s hands.
“When we give the Lord our time, our abilities, our generosity, and even our limitations, He multiplies those gifts for the good of many,” he said, emphasizing that no contribution is insignificant when it is put at the service of others.
The apostolic journey of Cardinal Pietro Parolin in Guatemala concluded on August 4, having included meetings with President Bernardo Arévalo, representatives of indigenous peoples, members of the diplomatic corps, and bishops and priests of the country. His visit concluded with a Eucharist at the Archdiocesan Sanctuary of Perpetual Adoration in Mixco.
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