Pope Leo XIV praised the “hidden daily gestures” of consecrated persons, which he described as offering “privileged witness” to the Church’s mission
Newsroom (10/10/2025, Gaudium Press ) In a heartfelt address during the Jubilee of Consecrated Life, Pope Leo XIV lauded the enduring service of consecrated men and women, emphasizing the profound impact of their often-unseen daily actions in sustaining the global Church. Speaking to an audience gathered in the Vatican on Friday morning, the Holy Father urged consecrated individuals to remain rooted in Christ, describing their lives as a “luminous trail” in God’s plan for peace and salvation.
“United with Him, and in Him with one another, your small lights become like the path of a luminous trail in the great plan of peace and salvation that God has for humanity,” Pope Leo XIV said, offering words of encouragement to those dedicated to religious life.
Expressing gratitude, the Pope extended a warm embrace to consecrated persons worldwide, acknowledging their presence “even in the most remote corners of the earth.” He celebrated the diversity and richness of their vocations, underscoring their vital role in invigorating the Church. “The Church needs you,” he affirmed, noting that their witness, with Christ at the center, has the power to “wake up the world.”
A Call to Stay Rooted in Christ
The Holy Father stressed the necessity of a deep spiritual foundation, urging consecrated individuals to remain anchored in Christ to fulfill their mission fruitfully. “It is always important to emphasize how essential it is for all of you to be rooted in Him,” he said, describing their vocation as a “wonderful adventure of following Jesus more closely.”
He encouraged them to “return to the heart,” rediscovering the initial spark of their calling through a robust interior life nurtured by prayer. This spiritual grounding, he noted, equips them to meet the deep need for hope and peace in today’s world. “You, consecrated men and women, want to be its bearers and witnesses through your lives: as messengers of harmony through your words and your example,” he said.
Honoring a Legacy of Service
Reflecting on centuries of service, Pope Leo XIV praised the “hidden daily gestures” of consecrated persons, which he described as offering “privileged witness” to the Church’s mission. He called on them to continue as “guardians and promoters of this great tradition,” while embracing synodality—a collaborative path of renewal within the Church. He advocated for a “domestic dialogue” to foster ongoing transformation in relationships, processes, and methods, aligning with the Church’s collective journey.
A Grateful Church
In closing, Pope Leo XIV expressed profound gratitude for the immense contributions of consecrated individuals to the Church and the world. Their often-unseen efforts, he said, remain a cornerstone of the Church’s mission, radiating hope and harmony across diverse communities.
The audience, part of the Jubilee of Consecrated Life, served as a poignant reminder of the enduring impact of those who dedicate their lives to Christ, illuminating the Church’s path toward peace and salvation.
- Raju Hasmukh with files from Vatican News
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