Pope Leo XIV encourages the Diplomatic Corps to pursue paths of peace, justice, truth, and hope.
By Francesca Merlo
Pope Leo XIV addressed members of the Diplomatic Corps accredited to the Holy See on Friday morning, just a week after assuming the See of Peter.
During his inaugural address to the diplomatic community, the Pope honored Ambassador George Poulides of Cyprus, the outgoing Dean of the Corps, praising his “energy, commitment, and kindness” and the respect he garnered from Pope Francis and his predecessors.
In his remarks, Pope Leo XIV reaffirmed the Church’s mission to serve all of humanity, describing the diplomatic community as a family that shares in life’s joys and challenges, grounded in human and spiritual values. He emphasized that the Church seeks not privileges but opportunities to build bridges, notably through its unique form of diplomacy rooted in pastoral concern.
Echoing Pope Francis’ Legacy
The Pope acknowledged that this mission resonates with Pope Francis’ legacy of caring for the poor, protecting creation, and addressing the implications of artificial intelligence, which continue to inspire him.
Pillars of Mission: Peace, Justice, and Truth
Central to the address were three vital concepts he identified as the cornerstones of the Church’s missionary work and the foundation of the Holy See’s diplomatic efforts: peace, justice, and truth.
Peace
On the subject of peace, he explained that it is not merely the absence of conflict but an active and nurturing gift, “the first gift of Christ.” True peace, he noted, must originate in the human heart through humility, thoughtful speech, and the renouncement of pride and vengeance. He stressed the importance of religious freedom and interfaith dialogue for fostering peace and called for a renewal of multilateral diplomacy and an end to the arms race, echoing Pope Francis’ call for disarmament.
Justice
As for justice, Pope Leo reflected on the teachings of Pope Leo XIII and the Church’s social doctrine, urging leaders to prioritize familial support and uphold the dignity of every human being amid increasing global inequalities. Drawing from his own life as an immigrant, he advocated for greater solidarity rooted in shared human dignity.
Truth
Regarding truth, Pope Leo XIV emphasized the critical need for genuine communication and peaceful relations. In an era where truths are often obscured, especially online, he reiterated the Church’s obligation to convey truth with love, despite potential misunderstandings. He noted that truth is not merely an abstraction but a relationship with Christ, enabling humanity to confront pressing issues such as migration, technology, and environmental concerns with unity.
A Hopeful Future
Concluding his address, Pope Leo XIV framed his ministry within the Jubilee Year of Hope, viewing it as a time for renewal and letting go of conflicts. He reaffirmed the Holy See’s commitment to accompany every nation in fostering a world where all can live with dignity and peace, expressing hope that this vision would manifest globally, especially in places enduring severe suffering like Ukraine and the Holy Land.
