Pope Leo XIV Emphasizes Eastern Catholic Heritage
Pope Leo XIV warmly greeted Eastern Catholics at the Vatican with the traditional Easter salutation, “Christ is risen! He is truly risen!”
In his address to the faithful from the 23 sui iuris Churches in full communion with Rome, the Holy Father expressed that they are “precious in God’s eyes.” He shared his joy at dedicating one of his initial meetings as Pope to the Eastern faithful, reflecting on their diverse origins and the painful histories some of their communities have faced.
The Pope echoed Pope Francis’ view that the Eastern Churches deserve to be “cherished and esteemed” due to their unique spiritual traditions which offer invaluable insights into Christian life and liturgy. He referred to the teachings of previous Popes, stressing the significance of maintaining Eastern traditions.
Pope Leo also voiced his concern regarding “many of our Eastern brothers and sisters” who are exiled from their homelands, a situation that threatens not only their lands but their religious identities as well. He urged the Dicastery for Eastern Churches to develop guidelines aiding Latin Bishops in supporting Eastern Catholics in the diaspora.
The Need for Eastern Contributions
Pope Leo remarked, “The Church needs you!” and highlighted the valuable contributions of the Christian East today. He emphasized the need to rediscover the sense of mystery found in Eastern liturgies, alongside the significance of penance and humility in the face of human shortcomings.
He acknowledged the “medicinal” essence of Eastern spirituality, which weaves together human suffering and God’s mercy, urging the Eastern faithful to preserve their traditions fully. Furthermore, he lamented the ongoing violence affecting regions like the Holy Land and Ukraine, which he connected to the resilience and hope of Eastern communities.
A Commitment to Global Peace
Pope Leo XIV affirmed his strong commitment to promoting peace, expressing the Vatican’s readiness to facilitate dialogue among adversaries to foster understanding and dignity. He urged global leaders and citizens to engage in meaningful conversations, stressing that “war is never inevitable” and that silencing weapons is essential to resolving conflicts.
In gratitude to those who promote peace, the Pope celebrated Christians, especially in the Middle East, who remain steadfast in their homelands amidst adversity. He called for Eastern Christians to be provided with genuine opportunities to exist safely in their native lands, reinforcing their value as “lights in the world.” Concluding, he urged pastors of Eastern Churches to cultivate communities characterized by integrity, fraternity, and co-responsibility.
“Today more than ever,” Pope Leo XIV remarked, “the brilliance of the Christian East requires liberation from worldly attachments to uphold faithful witness and obedience,” highlighting the enduring importance of Eastern Christian traditions.
