Vatican City: In a powerful gesture of ecumenical goodwill, Pope Leo XIV has extended heartfelt greetings to Mennonite and Catholic communities as they mark a historic milestone—the 500th anniversary of the Anabaptist movement. The occasion brought Mennonites together in Zurich, Switzerland, the birthplace of the movement, to reflect on half a millennium of faith, perseverance, and reform.
The Pope’s message, delivered on Thursday, echoed the resurrection greeting of Christ—“Peace be with you”—as a call to reconciliation and deeper communion between separated Christian traditions. Emphasizing the Easter context of the gathering, Pope Leo underlined the original Anabaptist yearning for radical transformation, spiritual renewal, and a return to Gospel authenticity.
Referencing the event’s theme, “The Courage to Love,” the Pope reflected on love not as sentiment, but as action. He urged Catholics and Mennonites alike to commit courageously to love, to strive for unity, and to dedicate themselves to the service of others. “This motto reminds us of the enduring challenge and divine mandate to build bridges rooted in charity, even amid painful memories,” he said.
Acknowledging the complex and sometimes painful past that marks the relationship between Mennonites and Catholics, Pope Leo called for a spirit of “honesty and kindness” in confronting history. He noted that historical wounds still echo in present-day interactions, and only by confronting these truths with compassion can healing begin.
He went on to encourage ongoing theological and pastoral dialogues, even when such conversations are uncomfortable or challenging. “This is not an easy path,” he admitted, “but Christ often revealed God’s will at the very heart of adversity.” He drew attention to the Gospel passages where Jesus, when confronted, emphasized the greatest commandments—to love God and one’s neighbor—and, on the eve of His crucifixion, prayed for unity among believers.
Pope Leo also quoted St. Augustine, recalling the profound humility with which the saint entrusted everything to divine mercy: “Grant what you command, and command what you will.” It was a reminder that reconciliation and unity are ultimately graces to be received as much as goals to be pursued.
In closing, Pope Leo offered a stirring vision of Christian unity as a counter-witness to global division and violence. “In a world torn by war and conflict, every step toward fraternity among Christians strengthens our shared witness to Christ, the Prince of Peace,” he declared. “The more united we are in love, the stronger our message of hope becomes.”
With this message, the Pope not only honored a pivotal anniversary in Christian history but also opened the door to a renewed journey of understanding, healing, and shared discipleship between Mennonites and Catholics.