In a powerful address that reaffirmed the heart of Catholic life and service, Pope Leo XIV called on leaders of lay associations, ecclesial movements, and new communities to “always keep the Lord Jesus at the centre” of their work. According to Vatican News, the pope reminded those gathered in Rome that “this is the essential thing, and charisms are meant to serve this purpose.”
This message comes at a time when more than 70,000 pilgrims are preparing to take part in the Jubilee for Movements, a global celebration of faith and community. Pope Leo’s words were directed to moderators and international delegates of Church-recognized associations attending an annual meeting organized by the Dicastery for Laity, the Family and Life.
The Holy Father’s address underscored the theological balance between structure and spirit in the Church. Drawing from the teaching of St. John Paul II, Pope Leo affirmed that both “hierarchical gifts and charismatic gifts ‘are co-essential to the divine constitution of the Church founded by Jesus.’” According to Christopher Wells of Vatican News, the pope explained that institutions exist “so that grace may always be offered,” while charisms are given “so that this grace may be received and bear fruit.”
Pope Leo emphasized the importance of unity and mission, calling them “two essential aspects of the Church’s life and two priorities of the Petrine ministry.” In this light, he urged movements and associations to be “a leaven of unity,” encouraging them to “cooperate faithfully and generously with the Pope” in promoting communion throughout the Church.
Reflecting on his personal journey and missionary background, the pope encouraged participants to “keep alive” their missionary zeal and to place their talents “at the service of the Church’s mission.” As he concluded his remarks, Pope Leo drew attention back to Christ, affirming that all charisms “lead to an encounter with Christ” and that they “help to build up the Church.”
“In this sense,” the pope said, “all of us are called to imitate Christ, Who emptied Himself to enrich us.” Whether joined for apostolic work or to live out a shared charism, he said, the vocation of every Christian is “to enrich others through the emptying of self,” which he described as “a source of freedom and great joy.”
This reminder from Pope Leo XIV serves not only as encouragement but as a re-centering of Catholic identity. In a Church rich with diversity of mission and spirituality, the common thread must always be Jesus Christ—alive, central, and the source of all grace.
