Pope Leo XIV has called for a more compassionate and responsive Catholic Church, saying it must pay close attention to the struggles and aspirations of people living through a period of profound global change.
The pontiff made the appeal at his weekly audience in St. Peter’s Square, Rome, where he encouraged the Church to listen to the questions, hopes and concerns that shape people’s lives.
The address introduced a fresh phase of his catechesis centred on the documents of the Second Vatican Council.
Particular attention will be given to Gaudium et Spes, the 1965 pastoral constitution that examines the relationship between the Catholic Church and the modern world.
Drawing on its message, Pope Leo said the Church should share in the experiences of humanity rather than stand apart from them. This includes recognising people’s happiness as well as their grief, anxiety and suffering, with special concern for those living in poverty or facing hardship.
The message comes against the backdrop of several major challenges confronting societies worldwide. Economic inequality, migration, wars and conflicts, and the rapid development of technology have continued to reshape communities and create new questions for religious and political leaders.
Pope Leo’s remarks suggest that the Church’s engagement with these issues will remain an important part of his papacy.
Born Robert Francis Prevost, Leo XIV became the first American-born pontiff after his election in May 2025. Much of his earlier religious service was spent in Peru before he assumed senior responsibilities in the Vatican.
As the new catechesis series unfolds, the Pope is expected to use the teachings of the Second Vatican Council to explore how the Church can remain relevant and supportive in an increasingly complex world.
