Pope Leo welcomed members of the Board of Governors of The Catholic Extension Society to the Vatican, expressing gratitude for their over a century of missionary service to poorer Catholic communities throughout the United States, Cuba, and Puerto Rico.
During the meeting, which took place ahead of the Solemnity of Pentecost, the Pope addressed the gathering with hopes that their pilgrimage would enrich their prayer life and strengthen their connection with the Successor of Peter and the Universal Church. "This occasion is particularly significant for you as a Pontifical Society," Pope Leo said.
Reflecting on the Acts of the Apostles, the Pope recalled how early Christians, empowered by the Holy Spirit, proclaimed Christ to “every nation under heaven,” establishing communities grounded in fraternity, prayer, and the Eucharist. He noted that this same missionary spirit inspired Father Francis Clement Kelley over 120 years ago when he aimed to bring the sacraments and the support of the wider Catholic community to isolated faith communities across the United States.
Founded in 1905 by Father Kelley, The Catholic Extension Society was created to assist Catholic communities in financially poor and remote areas within the United States. Over the years, the organization has played a crucial role in funding churches, seminaries, schools, and pastoral programs in underserved dioceses while also providing support for missionary outreach in Cuba and Puerto Rico. Elevated to the status of a Pontifical Society, Catholic Extension continues its mission of fortifying local Churches and uplifting communities that often lack resources and pastoral care. "That missionary enthusiasm is still needed today," the Pope stated, thanking the Society for its unwavering commitment to support these communities.
He highlighted the organization's impactful work in Cuba and Puerto Rico, calling it “a beautiful expression of the universality of the Church.” Quoting then Dilexi Te, Pope Leo reminded the attendees that “love for our neighbour is tangible proof of the authenticity of our love for God.” He further encouraged the Society’s outreach to disadvantaged individuals and immigrant families in the United States, asserting that it is vital for all to experience “the warmth of a community marked by the presence of Christ.”
The Pope reiterated an important aspect of the Church's mission by reflecting on the witness of early Christian communities, emphasizing that genuine Christian compassion naturally extends to those in suffering and need. He articulated, “Love for the poor can therefore be understood as the evangelical hallmark of a Church faithful to the heart of God.” Furthermore, he affirmed that the mission of Catholic Extension transcends merely addressing material difficulties. By fostering vibrant faith communities, the Society offers the necessary support and spiritual strength for individuals to confront life’s adversities with hope. These communities, Pope Leo explained, also serve as nurturing grounds for future vocations to the priesthood and religious life, cultivating “new labourers for the harvest for years to come.”
In conclusion, Pope Leo encouraged the members to continue serving the Lord “with gladness and generosity,” motivated by a love for God and their neighbors, expressing trust that the Father “who sees in secret will reward you.”
