Pope Leo XIV welcomed leaders of the National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) to the Vatican on Wednesday, praising the enduring Catholic faith of Italian immigrants as a source of strength and hope in their new homeland.
Newsroom (04/06/2025 08:55 , Gaudium Press)The audience, held ahead of the Pope’s weekly General Audience, marked the Foundation’s 50th anniversary. Speaking in English, the Holy Father reflected on the profound impact of Italian-American contributions, both cultural and spiritual.
Faith as an Anchor for Immigrants
“A hallmark of many who immigrated to the United States from Italy was their Catholic faith,” Pope Leo said, “which sustained them in difficult moments, even as they arrived with a sense of hope for a prosperous future in their new country.”
He noted that millions of Americans today proudly trace their roots to Italy, carrying forward traditions shaped by generations past. The Pope commended NIAF for its work in preserving Italian heritage through education, scholarships, and charitable initiatives that strengthen ties between Italy and the U.S.
A Legacy of Piety and Perseverance
The Holy Father highlighted the deep popular piety of Italian immigrants, whose devotions and traditions enriched the Church in America. “This faith was not just a cultural inheritance but a living source of resilience,” he said.
As the group visits Rome during the Jubilee Year, Pope Leo encouraged them to draw inspiration from the city’s spiritual treasures—the tombs of Sts. Peter and Paul and the witness of countless saints who “strengthened the Church in times of trial.”
A Call to Renewed Hope
Amid modern challenges, the Pope urged the delegation to hold fast to the hope that guided their ancestors. “May this pilgrimage renew your trust in the future,” he said.
Before imparting his Apostolic Blessing, Pope Leo XIV left them with a final encouragement: “I pray that you and your families will always cherish the rich spiritual and cultural legacy passed down to you—a legacy of faith, perseverance, and boundless hope.”
The meeting underscored the enduring bond between Italy and the Italian-American community, united by shared history and the universal call to live out the Gospel in every land.
- Raju Hasmukh with files from Vatican News
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