Listeners of BBC Radio 4’s Today programme heard a special message from Pope Francis on Saturday as he delivered a Thought for the Day reflecting on themes of hope, kindness, and humility. His address marked the start of the Catholic Church’s Jubilee year, which began on Christmas Eve.

Recorded in Italian and translated into English, the Pope’s message included a heartfelt reflection: “A world full of hope and kindness is a more beautiful world. A society that looks to the future with confidence and treats people with respect and empathy is more humane.” He also quoted British writer G.K. Chesterton, urging listeners to "take the elements of life with gratitude and not for granted".

The invitation for Pope Francis to take part came from Professor Irene Tracey, Vice Chancellor of the University of Oxford, who served as guest editor of the Today programme during the festive period. Professor Tracey, a neuroscientist, centred her edition on hope and kindness, linking these themes to her research on pain and the broader societal role of universities.

This marked the Pope’s second appearance on Thought for the Day, following a 2021 address where he called for urgent action to protect the planet ahead of the COP26 climate summit. Pope Francis continues a tradition set by his predecessor, Pope Benedict XVI, who contributed to the programme in 2010 after visiting the UK.