Pope Leo XIV encourages global Christians to share the Gospel as “Thy Kingdom Come” prayer movement begins May 14–24.
Newsroom (14/05/2026 Gaudium Press ) On the opening day of the ecumenical prayer initiative “Thy Kingdom Come,” Pope Leo XIV issued a video message urging Christians worldwide to embrace their mission of sharing the Gospel, emphasizing that faith is “not something about which we can keep silent.”
The annual movement, running from May 14 to May 24, invites believers across denominations to unite in prayer from Ascension Thursday through Pentecost Sunday. Its central objective is to encourage Christians to pray for more people to come to know Jesus Christ.
In his message, the Pope expressed his spiritual closeness to participants and underscored the significance of the initiative, which has expanded dramatically since its founding in 2016. Today, Thy Kingdom Come reaches more than one million Christians across nearly 90 percent of the world’s nations, spanning 85 different denominations and traditions.
A Global Call Rooted in Hope
Reflecting on the Advent phrase “Come, Emmanuel,” Pope Leo framed the prayer movement as a continuation of humanity’s enduring longing for God’s presence. The expression, rooted in the prophecy of Isaiah, calls for the fulfillment of God dwelling among His people.
The Pope drew parallels between the Advent season and the current moment, describing how the faithful throughout history have cried out for divine closeness, healing, and salvation. That same yearning, he said, remains evident today, as individuals and societies seek restoration amid brokenness.
“Even though we know that God is almighty and transcendent, we are still bold enough to ask Him to be truly with us—not distant, but close,” the Pope said.
He cautioned, however, that modern life can lead people to forget their dependence on God. Only God, he stressed, can “satisfy our deepest longings and our inner restlessness.” In Jesus Christ, that longing has already been answered through the incarnation, while the Holy Spirit ensures God’s ongoing presence among believers.
“We Are Not Left Orphans”
Turning to the Easter season, Pope Leo highlighted its message of joy and assurance. The proclamation of “Alleluia,” he said, celebrates the resurrection and affirms that Christ remains present with humanity.
Even after His ascension, Christ did not abandon His followers. “He did not leave us orphans,” the Pope emphasized, pointing to the enduring presence of the Holy Spirit within the Church.
This theological foundation carries practical implications. For Pope Leo, the reality of Christ’s presence demands action—faith must be lived and shared. “Christ is everything for us. In Him, we find the fullness of life and its meaning,” he said, adding that such a gift cannot remain private.
Instead, believers are called to proclaim it openly. The Thy Kingdom Come Novena, he explained, offers a structured opportunity for Christians to pray not only for themselves but also for others to encounter “the saving and liberating love of God revealed in Jesus.”
A Mission Beyond Boundaries
Pope Leo concluded his message with a call to missionary discipleship, drawing inspiration from the Gospel accounts of Easter morning. Just as the women who encountered the risen Christ were moved to go forth and share the news, Christians today are invited to carry the Gospel into the world.
He referenced his Easter Vigil homily, encouraging believers to bear witness through both words and actions. Faith, he said, must be expressed not only in proclamation but also in acts of charity—“singing” the Alleluia through daily life.
The Pope also emphasized unity within diversity, echoing the writings of Saint Augustine. Despite differences among Christian communities, they are united in Christ. This shared identity, he suggested, has the power to foster a “new world of peace and unity.”
A Growing Ecumenical Movement
Since its inception in 2016, Thy Kingdom Come has evolved into one of the most significant ecumenical prayer initiatives in the modern Christian landscape. Its inclusive approach—bringing together believers from a wide range of traditions—reflects a growing commitment to cooperation and shared mission among churches.
By encouraging prayer for evangelization, the movement bridges theological and cultural divides, focusing on a common purpose: introducing others to the Christian faith.
Pope Leo’s message reinforces this vision, positioning the initiative as both a spiritual exercise and a catalyst for outreach. His appeal for bold proclamation aligns with the movement’s core aim—to transform prayer into action.
Blessing and Commission
As he concluded his message, Pope Leo invoked God’s abundant blessings on all those taking part in the initiative. His words served as both encouragement and commissioning, sending participants forth with a renewed sense of purpose.
At a time when global challenges continue to test unity and hope, the Pope’s message places emphasis on the enduring relevance of faith and the collective responsibility of believers.
For the millions participating in Thy Kingdom Come this year, the call is clear: to pray fervently, live faithfully, and share the Gospel boldly with a world in need of hope.
- Raju Hasmukh with files from Vatican News
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