Vatican City: Pope Leo XIV delivered a powerful and unequivocal message to the Bishops of Madagascar during their Jubilee pilgrimage to Rome on Monday: their gaze must never waver from the poor, for they stand at the very heart of the Gospel message. The Pontiff received the Malagasy prelates in the Vatican, emphasizing their critical role as shepherds dedicated to the most vulnerable.
The Bishops' pilgrimage to Rome for the 2025 Jubilee Year marked a significant return, following Pope Francis’ 2019 Apostolic Journey to Madagascar and their ad limina visit in 2022. Pope Leo commended their collective decision to journey to the Eternal City, drawing inspiration from their presence near the tomb of St. Peter. "It is beautiful that you have become pilgrims of hope, together with the thousands and thousands of faithful who each day cross the Holy Doors of the papal basilicas," he shared.
Pope Leo further elaborated on the episcopal calling, urging the Bishops themselves to embody "pilgrims of hope" first for their own spiritual journey, and then for the faithful they serve in Madagascar. This, he stressed, is vital for everyone to "receive the grace of walking in the hope that is Jesus Christ." Having listened intently to the Bishops recount their pastoral joys and challenges, Pope Leo encouraged them to steadfastly walk alongside their flock, serving as living embodiments of the Gospel.
He also provided specific guidance on their ministry, highlighting the importance of nurturing their clergy. "I encourage each of you in your episcopal ministry to take special care of the priests, who are your first collaborators and your closest brothers, as well as the religious men and women who spend themselves in service," the Pope advised. He lauded the Malagasy Church's vibrant missionary spirit, acknowledging their legacy built upon the efforts of preceding missionaries and martyrs, notably Henri de Solages, the first missionary, and St. Jacques Berthieu, the nation's first canonized martyr.
The core of Pope Leo XIV’s exhortation resonated deeply with the Church’s social doctrine. "I urge you not to turn your gaze from the poor," he reiterated with conviction. "They are at the center of the Gospel and are the privileged recipients of the proclamation of the Good News." He passionately called upon all Bishops to recognize the very face of Christ in the poor, advocating for "concrete solicitude toward the littlest ones."
Concluding his address, Pope Leo extended his appeal to encompass care for our common home, specifically urging the Bishops to safeguard the natural beauty of Madagascar. He underscored that stewardship of Creation is an integral and inseparable part of their prophetic mission. "Take care of creation, which groans in pain," he implored, "and teach your faithful the art of protecting it with justice and peace." This holistic vision connects the plight of the poor with the cry of the Earth, underscoring a unified call to action for the Church.