Pope Leo XIV met with stewards, trustees, and members of The Papal Foundation on Saturday, as the US-based charitable organization made a pilgrimage to Rome. During the meeting, he expressed his gratitude for the support provided by the foundation, recalling that his former Diocese of Chiclayo, Peru, had received financial aid from them.
The Pope stated, "I was pleased to learn that membership in the Foundation continues to grow each year and that you have expressed an openness to increase the support provided as well as find new ways of being of service." He emphasized that while Christ entrusted the Apostles and their successors, the Bishops, with guiding the Church, every Catholic has a role in proclaiming the Gospel through word and charitable actions.
Quoting St. James, the Pope remarked, "faith without works is dead and has no power to save," reinforcing the biblical principle that Jesus expects His followers to care for the most vulnerable in society. He acknowledged that The Papal Foundation is involved in various humanitarian initiatives and scholarships, assisting individuals worldwide, including priests and consecrated religious seeking advanced education to become future Church leaders.
"Your generosity has allowed countless people to experience in a concrete fashion the goodness and kindness of God in their own communities," Pope Leo stated. He also thanked the members of The Papal Foundation on behalf of all who have benefited from their contributions. Highlighting the context of their meeting during the Easter Season, he invoked the Lord's salutation, "Peace be with you!" and reiterated Christ's call for His disciples to serve as instruments of peace.
He recalled Pope St. Paul VI's assertion that development signifies peace, noting that true harmony extends beyond merely avoiding conflict; rather, it involves fostering authentic human development. In this light, he asserted, "Fostering genuine progress through tangible initiatives like those supported by the Foundation is a sure way to encourage concord among communities and individuals." Concluding the meeting, Pope Leo XIV expressed his appreciation to The Papal Foundation for their pilgrimage to Rome and for their ongoing support for his ministry and the universal Church. He requested their continued prayers for his role as the Successor of Saint Peter and for the broader needs of the Church.
