Pope Leo XIV urges French bishops to continue fostering holiness in France, emphasizing education, youth engagement, and healing from sexual violence.
Pope's letter to French bishops
Pope Leo XIV sent a letter to the bishops of France during their Plenary Assembly in Lourdes, encouraging them to continue the momentum of his recent visit to the country. Encouragement to promote holiness
In the message, the Pope urged the bishops to "make holiness flourish" in France, emphasizing the importance of fostering spiritual growth within the Church and society. Focus on young generations and education
The Pope highlighted the need for the bishops to pay special attention to young people and Catholic education, reminding them of its role in placing Christ at the center of learning and promoting the overall development of individuals. Promoting saints and supporting the faithful
He also encouraged the bishops to promote the lives of saints, support catechumens and newly baptized individuals, and continue efforts to assist those who have experienced sexual violence and manipulation. Gratitude for the Pope's visit
The Pope expressed appreciation for the organization of his visit to France, acknowledging the collaboration of bishops, the faithful, and civil and religious authorities in creating a memorable experience. Importance of Catholic education and freedom of conscience
He emphasized the significance of Catholic education and the respect for individual freedom of conscience for the vitality of both society and the Church, urging the bishops to uphold an educational vision centered on Christ. Encouraging engagement with young people
The Pope called on the bishops to listen to the concerns of younger generations and to encourage them to engage with truth, including in political life, through strong and solid education. Learning from the lives of saints
He invited the bishops to follow the examples of saints who have shaped French history and to draw inspiration from their teachings, noting that understanding the saints of the past and present strengthens spiritual life. Training the faithful in holiness
The Pope urged the bishops to guide their communities, especially catechumens and new converts, in learning about the saints, emphasizing that their diverse backgrounds and testimonies make holiness accessible to all. Emphasis on charity and truth
He stressed that holiness involves charity in truth and encouraged the bishops to continue supporting those affected by sexual violence and manipulation, ensuring the Church becomes a place of comfort and healing for all. Closing blessing from the Pope
The letter concluded with a blessing from Pope Leo XIV, asking that Our Lady of Lourdes protect the bishops during their Assembly and support their pastoral work, so that holiness continues to flourish in France.
