Pope Leo XIV affirms the Pope’s mission to freely speak truth, defend the poor, and promote peace in address to the Pro Petri Sede Association.
Newsroom (18/02/2026 Gaudium Press ) Meeting with members of the Pro Petri Sede Association, Pope Leo XIV emphasized that the Successor of Peter must always retain the freedom to speak the truth, denounce injustice, defend the most vulnerable, and promote peace. His remarks came during a Wednesday audience at the Vatican, honoring a longstanding Catholic group devoted to supporting the Apostolic See.
The Pope opened his address by reflecting on the historical roots of the Pro Petri Sede Association, which traces its legacy to the Papal Zouaves—a volunteer infantry of young Catholic men who defended Pope Pius IX and the Papal States in the 19th century. The Pope praised the association for carrying forward that same spirit of loyalty and service, albeit in profoundly different times.
While acknowledging the changed socio-historical landscape since the days of the Zouaves, Pope Leo XIV was clear in rejecting any notion of physical struggle, noting that “there is no question of fighting with weapons or exercising any violence whatsoever” in defense of papal freedom. He recalled that even Pope Pius IX refused bloodshed when the troops of the Italian Risorgimento entered Rome in 1870, a testament, he said, to prophetic restraint in pursuit of peace.
Despite centuries of change, Pope Leo XIV insisted that the mission of the association remains vital. “The proclamation of the Kingdom of God,” he said, “is still hindered in many places and ways.” The Pope called on all members of the Church to renew their dedication to unity, service, and proclamation of the Gospel—core responsibilities of the Bishop of Rome as the Successor of Peter.
“In the troubled times in which we live,” Pope Leo said with earnest conviction, “it is of utmost importance that ‘Peter’ keep his total freedom to speak the truth, denounce injustice, defend the rights of the weakest, promote peace, and above all to proclaim Jesus Christ who died and rose again—the only horizon of a reconciled humanity.” His words underscored the enduring need for a Church that speaks fearlessly on behalf of the marginalized and serves as a moral compass in global affairs.
The pontiff also expressed deep appreciation for the association’s prayers and charitable initiatives, particularly their financial contributions to aid the poor. He singled out their assistance to his former Diocese of Chiclayo in Peru, where funds have helped establish a training center for those most in need. “The establishment of a training center for those most in need will be of great usefulness,” he said, “and will allow me, although separated by distance, to remain close to these people through thought and charity.”
As the audience drew to a close, Pope Leo XIV reminded the faithful that prayer remains the most powerful support for the mission of the Pope and the Holy See. Entrusting all members of the Pro Petri Sede Association to the maternal intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, he reaffirmed the collective responsibility of Catholics to uphold the truth, protect human dignity, and work tirelessly for peace.
- Raju Hasmukh with files from Vatican News
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