Pope Leo XIV met on Thursday with members of the Conference of Latin Bishops of the Arab Regions (CELRA), who were holding their annual meeting in Rome. In his address, the Pope acknowledged the significant role of the…
Pope Leo XIV met on Thursday with members of the Conference of Latin Bishops of the Arab Regions (CELRA), who were holding their annual meeting in Rome. In his address, the Pope acknowledged the significant role of the Bishops in guiding local Churches across a vast and diverse region, often fraught with political, social, and religious tensions.
The Pope remarked on the witness of martyrdom seen in these communities, highlighting the sacrifices made by priests, men and women religious, and laypeople who have lost their lives for the faith in conflict-ridden areas like Iraq and Syria. He stressed the importance of the Church’s leaders being close to their people, sharing in their suffering through listening and offering consolation, particularly as families face the challenges of emigration and the fragility of their communities.
Pope Leo emphasized that even in regions where Catholics are a minority, their faithfulness to the Gospel bears fruit. “At the heart of societies marked by conflict and division,” he stated, “may your communities show that it is possible to live, serve, and hope together.” He pointed to the Church’s work through parishes, schools, and hospitals, which makes the Gospel tangible by serving those in need, with particular acknowledgment of the vital role played by religious congregations.
Addressing the difficulties faced by families and youth, the Pope urged the Bishops to provide special care as they navigate uncertainties. He noted that young people often receive their faith entwined with family support and community teachings in catechesis. Furthermore, he highlighted the need to attend to migrants who live far from their families in Gulf countries, urging the Bishops to create communities where everyone feels welcomed. “Defend the dignity of every person and recognize in every migrant a brother or sister,” he said, calling for charity to embody a witness to the Gospel.
The Pope also called for the preservation of communion among the diverse Churches, valuing the plethora of Christian traditions as a treasure to be nurtured in unity. This communion should foster sincere dialogue with other Christian denominations and Muslim communities. He argued that genuine dialogue does not require individuals to compromise their identities but rather to uphold them while engaging with others. “Wherever war has sown distrust, every gesture of esteem, cooperation, and respect can become a step towards reconciliation and peace,” he added.
Concluding his address, Pope Leo XIV encouraged the Latin Bishops of the Arab regions to embody Christ and proclaim His teachings through the Sacraments and prayer. He cautioned against seeking success or recognition as primary objectives, instead urging fidelity. He called upon the Bishops to be voices of truth, justice, and peace, becoming shepherds close to their communities, artisans of reconciliation, and witnesses of mercy.
