Vatican City: In a heartfelt message to the French Bishops’ Conference, Pope Leo XIV has called for a spiritual and missionary renewal in France, using the centenary of the canonization of three revered French saints as a beacon for revival. He underscored France’s enduring Christian heritage, saying it continues to echo through its culture and lives on in the hearts of many, despite the challenges facing the modern Church.
Marking 100 years since the canonization of Saint Thérèse of Lisieux, Saint John Eudes, and Saint Jean-Marie Vianney, the Pope’s letter invites the French Church to rediscover its roots and recommit to evangelization with boldness and faith. He urged the bishops to give special prominence to this anniversary, stating, “The magnitude of the challenges now confronting the Church in France—and the enduring relevance of these saints—compel us to highlight their witness with renewed intensity.”
Reflecting on each saint, Pope Leo described Saint Thérèse of Lisieux as “the great Doctor in the science of love,” whose youthful simplicity and deep devotion to Jesus offer an antidote to modern spiritual fatigue. Canonized on May 17, 1925, she is a Patroness of the Missions and continues to inspire with her message of unconditional love.
Two weeks after Thérèse's canonization, Pope Pius XI elevated two other French spiritual giants to sainthood: Saint John Eudes, who championed priestly formation and aid to vulnerable women, and Saint Jean-Marie Vianney, famously known as the Curé of Ars, whose humility, prayer, and passion for confession made him a model of pastoral holiness. Pope Leo highlighted Vianney’s enduring words, “The priesthood is the love of the Heart of Jesus,” as a testament to his missionary zeal.
In his message, Pope Leo echoed the intentions of Pope Pius XI, who canonized the trio not just for veneration, but to present them as “teachers to be listened to, models to imitate, and powerful intercessors.” He noted, “These saints gave their lives completely to Christ—with simplicity, strength, and authenticity. Their lives reflect a daily intimacy with Jesus and a burning missionary spirit the Church must rekindle.”
Citing Dilexit Nos, the latest encyclical of Pope Francis focused on the Sacred Heart, Pope Leo offered a blueprint for the French Church’s renewal: to help every person encounter the transformative, tender love of Christ. He stressed that this rediscovery must move beyond nostalgia and become a catalyst for fresh evangelization. “This is not just a remembrance of past glory,” he wrote. “It is a summons to hope—a spark to reignite France’s missionary identity.”
The Pope also emphasized that saints emerge not in isolation but from vibrant Christian communities that pass on the faith across generations. He affirmed that the faith legacy of France remains alive, even if battered by secularism, materialism, and individualism. “This Christian heritage still belongs to you,” he wrote. “Let it inspire new growth.”
Pope Leo concluded with a stirring call to action. He envisioned Saint Thérèse not just as a missionary icon abroad, but as a patron for France itself—a land in need of her fervent love. He expressed hope that the examples of Saint Eudes and the Curé of Ars might inspire a new generation of young men to embrace the priesthood, especially at a time when clergy face increased demands and dwindling numbers.
Finally, invoking the intercession of all three saints, Pope Leo XIV prayed for courage and perseverance among French Catholics, as they navigate a society marked by spiritual apathy and cultural hostility. “May their legacy awaken France once more,” he said, “and renew the wonders God has wrought before.”