Pope Leo XIV reminded the Bishops of Spain that the Church's strength derives not from its resources, but from the holiness of its members. This assertion was made during a meeting at the headquarters of the Spanish Episcopal Conference in Madrid on Monday morning.
"The strength of the Church does not come from the greatness of her resources, but from the holiness of Her children, from the communion of Her pastors, and from the humble and persevering fidelity of those who allow themselves to be guided by the Spirit," the Pope stated. He encouraged the bishops to persevere in their faith and commitment despite the numerous challenges they face, urging them to safeguard unity, foster dialogue, heal divisions, and accompany their congregations.
In his remarks, Pope Leo emphasized that it is the Lord who leads the Church. He stated, "He determines the rhythm. We walk behind Him; indeed, we walk with Him as members of one body." This deep connection, he asserted, necessitates that the Church offer a witness to unity amidst rising polarization and division in society.
The Holy Father called for a communion that embraces the diverse gifts and sensibilities within the Church. He particularly stressed that the role of bishops is crucial in advancing this mission. He urged them to live in communion, ensuring that they are visible signs of unity while safeguarding their faith, rooted in the teachings of Scripture and the traditions of the Church.
Pope Leo further indicated that fostering a peaceful internal environment in the Church would enable it to engage more freely with those of different Christian denominations, other religions, and secular authorities. He highlighted the importance of staying close to young people, seminarians, and vulnerable communities, thereby encouraging the bishops to support a missionary vitality.
As the meeting progressed, the Pope invoked the memory of Pope Saint John Paul II, who referred to Spain as "Mary's Land." He expressed that the Blessed Virgin is the bishops' first companion on their journey and their greatest treasure, guiding believers in welcoming and preserving the Word of God. He said, "To her, I entrust your ministry, that she may help you in the midst of the people entrusted to your care."
In this context, Pope Leo noted that this year marks the fifth centenary of the priestly ordination of Saint John of Avila, the patron of the Spanish clergy. He honored him as a wise teacher of spirituality and a simple priest, reminding the bishops of their vital role in fostering the priestly life within their dioceses. The Pope insisted that it is incumbent upon bishops to be fathers to their priests, accompanying them in their challenging ministry.
He concluded with a call for prayer, echoing the sentiment of Saint John of Avila, who expressed the need for a heart aligned with Christ to navigate the challenges they face. He prayed, "Lord, give us your heart, a heart capable of lifting its gaze toward you, of setting out on the journey, of listening, of discerning…" Pope Leo XIV asserted that the Church, which carries the heart of Christ, holds the provisions needed to face all challenges ahead.
