Michael Bublé’s return to the Vatican for the 6th edition of the Concert with the Poor became a rare moment in which music, faith, and service blended into something profoundly meaningful. Since its founding in 2015, the annual event has welcomed thousands of individuals experiencing hardship — including the homeless, migrants, detainees with special permissions, and people facing social or mental distress — into the Paul VI Audience Hall. For Bublé, stepping onto this stage was more than a performance; it was an act of spiritual duty.
In the days leading up to the concert, Bublé spoke openly about crafting a program that honored both the Advent season and the significance of the gathering. This year’s event featured Msgr. Marco Frisina, Serena Autieri, and the Nova Opera Orchestra, creating an atmosphere centered on reflection rather than entertainment. Bublé emphasized that Christmas is, above all, a celebration of Christ’s birth — and the evening was designed to preserve that sacred focus.
A Personal Request from the Pope
One of the most touching moments of the entire experience began with a private message from Pope Leo XIV. Curious whether the Holy Father had a musical preference for the concert, Bublé reached out through his Vatican connections. The answer surprised him: Ave Maria.
Originally composed by Franz Schubert in 1825, Ave Maria is a prayer set to a serene and reverent melody. Traditionally performed by classical vocalists, it demands both technical precision and emotional depth. Bublé admitted that he had sung it only once before and felt humbled — even nervous — by the weight of the request.
His hesitation was not rooted in vocal difficulty but in the responsibility of honoring such a sacred piece, especially before the Pope and an audience filled with vulnerable guests. Supported by the choir and orchestra, he approached the song without theatrics or operatic flourish. Instead, his interpretation was simple, sincere, and guided by humility. His warm, gentle tone framed the prayer with honesty, honoring the song’s classical roots while staying true to his own vocal identity.
An Unexpected Duet
The Pope requested several additional pieces for the evening, showing the personal meaning the concert held for him. One of the night’s most charming surprises came during Bublé’s rendition of the timeless pop classic “L.O.V.E.” — first recorded by Nat King Cole in 1965. As the orchestra played, Pope Leo XIV began humming and softly singing along. The moment was unplanned, natural, and joyfully human, prompting smiles throughout the hall.
Faith, Music, and Purpose
Throughout the concert preparations, Bublé reflected on the role of faith in his life. He frequently described music as a gift from God — one that guides his choices and shapes the message he strives to share: kindness, hope, and love. In a world marked by conflict and suffering, he referred to faith as a “pilot light,” a small but unwavering flame that keeps the darkness at bay.
What mattered most to him about this performance was the opportunity to serve those in need. He spoke of teaching his children that God’s presence can be found in the poor, and he viewed the concert as an extension of that belief. For Bublé, connecting with this audience went beyond artistry; it was a form of ministry. As he always does, he offered a quiet prayer before taking the stage — a prayer of gratitude for the chance to reach people not only through music, but through compassion.