Pope Leo XIV has offered a heartfelt message to the Knights of Columbus as they convene in Washington, D.C., for their 143rd Supreme Convention, encouraging them to remain “signs of hope” in a world increasingly marked by hardship.
In a video address released by the Vatican, the Holy Father expressed his appreciation for the Order’s enduring mission of fraternal charity and spiritual support, which he said finds its roots in the example of their founder, Blessed Michael McGivney.
“Jesus Christ is the source of our hope,” Pope Leo affirmed, invoking the theme of this Jubilee Year of Hope. He reminded the Knights that every generation of Christians is tasked with proclaiming the Gospel—both by preaching and by tangible acts of mercy. Quoting his predecessor, Pope Francis, he described hope as “the desire and expectation of good things to come, despite our not knowing what the future may bring.”
The theme for this year’s convention, “Heralds of Hope,” reflects the Order’s mission to bring light to those in darkness. Pope Leo commended the Knights for their dedication to serving the most vulnerable—including the poor, children, pregnant women, and families affected by war.
He highlighted the continuing relevance of Blessed Michael McGivney’s original vision, especially his care for struggling immigrant Catholic families in 19th-century America. That same spirit of compassion, the Pope said, lives on through local councils today.
“I thank you for your efforts to gather men for prayer, formation, and service,” Pope Leo said, urging them to remain a “living witness” of Christian charity within their parishes and communities.
The Pope closed his message by entrusting the Order’s mission to the Blessed Virgin Mary and to Blessed Michael McGivney, offering his Apostolic Blessing to all those gathered in person and online for the Supreme Convention.
As the world faces new and growing challenges, Pope Leo’s words serve as a powerful reminder that the Knights of Columbus are not just defenders of the faith—they are bearers of hope.
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