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Pope Leo XIV addressed the national directors of the Pontifical Mission Societies on May 22, 2025, at Vatican's Clementine Hall. In his speech, he welcomed attendees from over 120 countries participating in the annual General Assembly of the Pontifical Mission Societies. Pope Leo XIV expressed gratitude for their service, emphasizing its importance to the Church’s mission of evangelization.
He described the Pontifical Mission Societies as "the primary means" for awakening missionary responsibility among all baptized individuals and supporting young ecclesial communities. He highlighted several societies: The Society for the Propagation of the Faith aids pastoral and catechetical programs; The Society of the Holy Childhood supports Christian formation programs for children; The Society of St. Peter the Apostle cultivates missionary vocations; and The Missionary Union forms priests and religious individuals for missionary activity.
Pope Leo XIV stressed that promoting apostolic zeal is crucial for renewing the Church as envisioned by the Second Vatican Council. He remarked on a world afflicted by war, violence, and injustice needing to hear "the gospel message of God’s love" and experiencing "the reconciling power of Christ’s grace." He urged a spirit of missionary discipleship among all baptized individuals.
The Pope thanked those promoting World Mission Sunday each October, aiding him in caring for Churches under the Dicastery for Evangelization. He called upon national directors to prioritize visiting dioceses and parishes to help recognize missions' importance.
Pope Leo XIV reflected on two elements central to their identity: communion and universality. As part of sharing in the pope's missionary mandate, they should cultivate a vision of unity within church members inspired by St. Augustine's words: "In Illo uno unum."
The Pope emphasized that appreciating this communion opens members to share Jesus Christ's knowledge universally. A renewed focus on unity aligns with their charism, inspiring them during their statutes renewal process.
Concluding his address, Pope Leo XIV encouraged being “missionaries of hope among all peoples,” echoing Pope Francis’ theme for World Mission Day this year. He imparted his apostolic blessing as a pledge of lasting joy and peace in the Lord.
