Vatican City: Pope Leo XIV expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Knights of Columbus for their steadfast dedication to charity, faith, and defense of human life during an audience with the organization’s Board of Directors at the Vatican. The Pope’s remarks came as the Knights visited Rome as part of their pilgrimage for the Jubilee of Hope, marking yet another chapter in the fraternal order’s historic partnership with the Holy See.
In his address at the Apostolic Palace, Pope Leo commended the Knights for their enduring spirit of service to both the Church and humanity. He noted that their charitable initiatives have not only strengthened communities across the world but have also helped preserve the artistic and spiritual heritage of the Vatican itself.
The Pope drew particular attention to the restoration of two of St. Peter’s Basilica’s most iconic masterpieces Gian Lorenzo Bernini’s majestic baldacchino and the bronze Cathedra Petri, the Chair of St. Peter both of which have recently been renewed with the financial support of the Knights of Columbus.
“These masterpieces,” Pope Leo said, “invite the faithful to contemplate two essential mysteries of our faith the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist and the mission of Peter’s Successor, who unites and guides the Church.” He emphasized that such acts of generosity stand as “a visible sign of your continued devotion to the Vicar of Christ.”
Reflecting on the organization’s longstanding support for papal charitable works, the Pope highlighted the Vicarius Christi Fund, established by the Knights to enable the Pope to extend aid to the poor and vulnerable around the globe. Through this and countless other initiatives, he said, the Knights have consistently embodied the Gospel spirit of compassion and solidarity.
Turning to their broader mission, Pope Leo praised the Knights for their grassroots efforts through local councils worldwide bringing men together in faith and service. He lauded their commitment to “upholding the sanctity of human life in all its stages,” assisting victims of war and natural disasters, and supporting priestly and religious vocations.
“In every community you serve,” the Pope said, “you make visible the love of Christ, strengthening the moral fabric of society and offering hope to those most in need.”
Concluding his address, Pope Leo XIV imparted his apostolic blessing to the Knights’ leadership and families, encouraging them to continue the mission envisioned by their founder, Blessed Michael McGivney. “May your pilgrimage nourish your faith, confirm you in hope, and deepen your love for the Church,” he said. “And may you be strengthened to continue the noble mission entrusted to you to defend life, serve the poor, and build up the unity of the Body of Christ.”