Pope calls for open Christian engagement with culture

During a general audience on October 28, Pope Léon XIV urged Christians to embrace their faith without hostility toward the world and its cultural expressions. He emphasized the importance of engaging with the broader society rather than isolating oneself from it.

Faith and culture must coexist

The Pope continued his catecheses, focusing on the relationship between faith and culture as outlined in the Vatican II document Gaudium et spes. He explained that Christian faith is not confined to any single culture but is deeply connected to the cultural context in which it exists.

Faith should engage with human knowledge and art

Léon XIV said that Christian faith should reach people in their full life context, including their traditions, art, poetry, thought, and science. He encouraged the Church to embrace what is good, beautiful, and true in all cultures, rather than rejecting them.

Faith requires intellectual and cultural growth

The Pope stressed that believers must be educated in both faith and culture to live their faith credibly. He noted that scientific and intellectual progress raises new questions that require thoughtful engagement with faith.

Church supports access to cultural education

Léon XIV highlighted the Church’s historical role in establishing schools and universities, especially during the medieval period. He called for ensuring access to basic cultural education and reducing illiteracy, while also advocating for greater participation of women in cultural life.