In a significant address to Roman Catholic cardinals, Pope Leo XIV on Saturday expressed his dedication to continuing the work initiated by his predecessor, Pope Francis. He articulated a vision for a more missionary-focused church, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and collaboration among church leaders.
Citing Pope Francis's key document, Evangelii Gaudium, Leo highlighted essential goals, including promoting community leadership, fostering popular spirituality, and extending compassionate care to marginalized groups. “Francis masterfully and concretely set it forth,” Leo asserted, expressing admiration for his predecessor's guidance.
The new pope also shared insight into his choice of name, referencing Pope Leo XIII, who addressed social issues during the industrial revolution with his document Rerum Novarum. Leo XIV remarked on the current “industrial revolution” created by advances in artificial intelligence, asserting that these innovations present new challenges for upholding human dignity, justice, and labor rights.
He proclaimed that the Church offers its social teachings in response to these contemporary issues. Additionally, he praised Francis as a “humble servant of God,” underscoring his dedication to service and simplicity in life.
Following Leo’s address, Cardinal Baltazar Enrique Porras Cardozo of Venezuela affirmed the message of continuity with Francis’ papacy, particularly regarding the formation of priests and bishops. Meanwhile, Cardinal Sean Brady of Ireland noted the pope's warm interaction with attendees as he concluded the meeting.
As Pope Leo XIV steps into his role, his emphasis on modern challenges and a commitment to inclusivity signifies a hope for the evolution of the church in a rapidly changing world.
Citing Pope Francis's key document, Evangelii Gaudium, Leo highlighted essential goals, including promoting community leadership, fostering popular spirituality, and extending compassionate care to marginalized groups. “Francis masterfully and concretely set it forth,” Leo asserted, expressing admiration for his predecessor's guidance.
The new pope also shared insight into his choice of name, referencing Pope Leo XIII, who addressed social issues during the industrial revolution with his document Rerum Novarum. Leo XIV remarked on the current “industrial revolution” created by advances in artificial intelligence, asserting that these innovations present new challenges for upholding human dignity, justice, and labor rights.
He proclaimed that the Church offers its social teachings in response to these contemporary issues. Additionally, he praised Francis as a “humble servant of God,” underscoring his dedication to service and simplicity in life.
Following Leo’s address, Cardinal Baltazar Enrique Porras Cardozo of Venezuela affirmed the message of continuity with Francis’ papacy, particularly regarding the formation of priests and bishops. Meanwhile, Cardinal Sean Brady of Ireland noted the pope's warm interaction with attendees as he concluded the meeting.
As Pope Leo XIV steps into his role, his emphasis on modern challenges and a commitment to inclusivity signifies a hope for the evolution of the church in a rapidly changing world.
