As the Prefect of the Congregation for Clergy, Cardinal Yoo delivered his sermon at St. Paul Outside the Walls, where he noted, "Compassion must replace violence, and communication must fill the void of indifference."
He reflected on the ongoing division of the Korean Peninsula, saying, "We still live with the wounds of division, and our brothers and sisters are separated. What greater pain could there be?" He stressed that peace cannot be abandoned for any reason and that we must strive with all our strength to build it.
Cardinal Yoo remarked, "Today’s world needs compassion more than ever," expressing concern that indifference and selfishness are prevalent where compassion should exist, and that violence and force are trying to take their place.
He added, "Even between dry asphalt, a flower can bloom," emphasizing that hope exists even in the most challenging circumstances.
The mass was presided over by Cardinal Yoo, the first Korean to be appointed as the Prefect of the Congregation for Clergy. He expressed his deep support for President Lee Jae-myung's commitment to peace during his year in office, stating, "I not only resonate deeply with your calls for a world where the North and South can truly coexist, but I also pray for it daily."
The mass took place at St. Paul Outside the Walls, one of Rome's seven major basilicas, which houses the tomb of Saint Paul the Apostle, with President Lee in attendance.
This visit marks the first time a South Korean president has visited the Vatican since former President Moon Jae-in in October 2021.
President Lee is scheduled to meet privately with Pope Leo XIII at the Vatican on June 15, followed by a meeting with Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican's Secretary of State.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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