Love Can Build

The Pope thanked the Church in Singapore for its “rich grace, vitality, continuous growth, and constructive dialogue with other church groups and religions.” He also expressed admiration for the “incredible National Stadium complex,” emphasizing that love, not money or technology, made such magnificent buildings possible.

Quoting St. Paul’s Letter to the Corinthians, the Pope emphasized that “love builds.” He explained that behind any good deed, there are vulnerable men and women who find motivation and strength in love.

Without Love, Nothing is Achieved

The Pope described Singapore as a metropolis with thousands of skyscrapers and “bold architecture,” but emphasized that behind each work, there are “many love stories” that come from being in community. He explained that these stories must be passed on to remind us that nothing lasting can be born without love.

The Pope warned that grand plans can make us imagine that we can rely on ourselves, but life brings us back to the reality that without love, we are nothing.

Everyone’s Respect

The Pope emphasized that faith confirms that God is the source of our ability to love and be loved. He quoted Saint John Paul II, saying that this love is characterized by “the greatest respect for all, regardless of race, creed, or anything that makes them different from us.”

Accept Everyone

The Pope encouraged the faithful to accept the “brothers and sisters” they meet every day on life’s journey, “without favor and without distinction.” He praised Singaporean society and the Church for their diversity and unity.

In God’s sight, the Pope said, we are the most beautiful buildings, the most valuable treasures, and the most profitable investments – children loved by the same Father and called to spread love.

Responding to God’s Infinite Love

The Pope mentioned examples of men and women who practice the love of God, including the Virgin Mary and Francis Xavier. He encouraged the faithful to make the words “Here I am, Lord; what do you want me to do?” their own, as an eternal commitment to respond to God’s infinite love.

Witness Flame

At the end of the Mass, Cardinal Ng Seng Chye, Archbishop of Singapore, thanked the Pope for his presence. The cardinal expressed his wish to strengthen ecumenical relations, walk the path of fellowship and dialogue, and maintain community to promote the mission and bring hope to mankind.