From Vaticannews · Vatican News · · 1m 10s
Pope Leo XIV urges French bishops to defend Church's prophetic voice
Pope Leo XIV calls for French bishops to champion the Church's prophetic role amid secular challenges and abuse recovery efforts
In brief
Pope Leo XIV calls for French bishops to champion the Church's prophetic role amid secular challenges and abuse recovery efforts Church must remain visible in public life despite secular pressures and ongoing abuse recovery Originally reported by Vaticannews.
Pope meets French bishops
Pope Leo XIV met French bishops in Lourdes on Sunday, thanking them for placing their ministry under Mary's protection.
“No better way to come to Jesus than through Mary”
Church's prophetic voice
Pope Leo stated the Church has 'every right to be heard in the public square' and possesses 'prophetic authority' despite not always being understood.
“By its nature, it possesses a prophetic authority”
Secularism challenges
France's secular system faces growing tension as the Church works to maintain its role in public life and education.
“The French Church lives under a particular form of secularity”
Abuse recovery focus
Pope Leo praised bishops' 'courageous measures' to address clergy abuse of minors and urged continued vigilance.
“You must continue along the path you have begun”
Vocations decline
Pope Leo noted declining religious vocations and the closure of monastic communities affecting French Catholic life.
“Ancient and renowned monastic communities”
Family support
Pope Leo encouraged bishops to support families in living their faith and helping young people dedicate their lives to Christ.
“To give one's life to following Jesus requires special generosity”
Unity call
Pope Leo urged bishops to maintain unity in charity without ideological division to strengthen their witness.
“This unity is not a flat uniformity”
The big picture
Church must remain visible in public life despite secular pressures and ongoing abuse recovery
