Pope Francis, addressing the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem, lamented the profound suffering and loss of innocent lives in the very places associated with the Lord's teachings. Meeting with the Order, whose origins trace back to the First Crusade,  Pope expressed solidarity with their Consultation and emphasized the importance of formation, encompassing spiritual and managerial aspects.

Pope acknowledged the Order's commitment to charity and sustaining the Christian presence in the Holy Land. He highlighted four crucial guidelines symbolized by the Cross on their mantles: initial and ongoing formation, practical considerations, and spiritual devotion. Pope Francis urged the Order to infuse their work with the spirit of charity, prayer, and service, emphasizing a focus on the well-being of the human person.

Encouraging the Order to embrace its identity as a force for charity,  Pope called for tangible acts of solidarity, including education and support for vulnerable groups such as the elderly, the sick, and refugees. He emphasized the biblical imperative to care for the widow, orphan, and stranger.

Concluding the meeting, Pope Francis prayed for those affected by the tragic events in the Holy Land and invoked the assistance of the Virgin Mary, specifically as the Queen of Palestine, in the Order's mission.  Pope extended his blessing to the Order's members and their families.