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| Pope Leo XIV speaks to participants in the Jubilee of Eastern Churches on May 14, 2025, in the Paul VI Audience Hall at the Vatican. |
In a poignant address delivered on May 14, 2025, Pope Leo XIV extended a heartfelt appeal to Eastern Catholics, urging them to remain steadfast in their war-torn homelands. Speaking to thousands gathered in the Vatican's Paul VI Audience Hall during a three-day jubilee event, the pontiff emphasized the importance of preserving the rich spiritual and cultural heritage of Eastern Catholic communities.
Pope Leo XIV expressed profound gratitude to those Eastern and Latin Christians who, despite facing violence and hardship, continue to reside in their ancestral lands. He acknowledged the immense challenges they face, including persecution and displacement, and assured them of his unwavering support in advocating for peace and stability in their regions.
Highlighting the unique liturgical practices and traditions of the 23 Eastern Catholic Churches, the pope underscored their integral role within the universal Church. He emphasized the need to protect and cherish these traditions, which have been nurtured over centuries and are vital to the Church's diversity and richness.
Pope Leo XIV appealed to the international community to recognize and uphold the rights of Christians in the Middle East and other conflict zones. He stressed the necessity of providing tangible support to ensure that these communities can live securely and practice their faith freely in their native lands.
Reaffirming the Vatican's dedication to peacebuilding efforts, the pope pledged to utilize all available means to promote dialogue and reconciliation in regions afflicted by conflict. He highlighted the Holy See's readiness to mediate and facilitate humanitarian initiatives aimed at alleviating the suffering of affected populations.
Pope Leo XIV's address serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience and faith of Eastern Catholic communities. His call for solidarity and action resonates as an urgent appeal to preserve the spiritual heritage and ensure the continued presence of these communities in their historic homelands.