Pope Francis warned that today we are also living in a “time of martyrdom,” more so than in the first centuries, as many people in different parts of the world suffer persecution for their faith in Jesus.
“Today we remember the Roman Protomartyrs. We too live in a time of martyrdom, more so than in the first centuries. In various parts of the world, many of our brothers and sisters suffer discrimination and persecution for their faith, thus fruitfully enriching the Church,” the Holy Father noted.
“Others then face martyrdom ‘with white gloves’. Let us support them and let ourselves be inspired by their testimony of love for Christ,” he added.
On other occasions during his pontificate, Pope Francis has referred to martyrdom “with white gloves,” to denounce that many Christians are persecuted and discriminated against “in an elegant manner,” without resorting to bloodshed.
Today, June 30, the Catholic Church remembers the Holy Protomartyrs of the Holy Roman Church, who died during the first persecution in history, organized against the Catholic Church in the second half of the 1st century.
They suffered terrible torments and gave their lives simply because they were Christians, followers of Jesus. That is why the Church has given them the title of “protomartyrs”, that is, they are the first martyrs or first witnesses.
Pope Francis also expressed his hope that “on this last day of June, we implore the Sacred Heart of Jesus to touch the hearts of those who want war, so that they may convert to projects of dialogue and peace.”
“Brothers and sisters, let us not forget the martyred Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, Myanmar and so many other places where people suffer greatly because of war!” he urged.
Although the Sacred Heart of Jesus feast is celebrated on June 7, the Church dedicates this entire month to celebrating it, because it was in June 1675 that Jesus asked Saint Mary Margaret Alacoque to promote devotion to his Heart.