Rome correspondent Ashley Noronha joined John Morales to reflect on Pope Leo XIV’s powerful catechesis from today’s General Audience. Centered on the Parable of the Vineyard Owner (Matthew 20:1–16), the Pope offered a message of hope, perseverance, and divine purpose—especially for those who feel unseen or forgotten.
Ashley highlighted the Pope’s insight into the workers in the parable, those standing in the market all day, hoping someone will hire them. In our own lives, we often feel like them: unwanted, unchosen, overlooked. At those moments, the temptation grows to “sell ourselves to the highest bidder”, to settle for less than our dignity as children of God.
But the vineyard owner, representing God, keeps returning to seek workers, right up to the final hour. This, Pope Leo said, is a sign of God’s relentless love and constant call. Even when we feel like giving up, He never gives up on us.
Pope Leo emphasized that desolation is not the end of the story. When we feel spiritually dry or abandoned, the call is to remain faithful. Like the workers who waited all day, our hope will not go unrewarded. God calls us to labor in His vineyard, to share the gospel, tend to His people, and participate in His redemptive work. And He will reward us generously, regardless of how “late in the day” we begin.
To young people especially, Pope Leo gave a heartfelt encouragement: don’t wait to start working in the Lord’s vineyard. The world needs their gifts now. He urged them to discover their unique calling in salvation history, to grow close to Christ early, and to bring others along for the journey.
Whether you feel like you’re late to the game or still waiting to be called, God sees you, and He’s still inviting you to join His mission. All He asks is your willingness—and He will provide the rest.
Start early. Stay faithful. The vineyard awaits.
