Istanbul: On his second day in Türkiye, Pope Leo XIV delivered a stirring message of encouragement to the country’s tiny Catholic minority, reminding them that the Gospel’s “logic of littleness” has always been a source of spiritual strength rather than weakness. Speaking at the historic Cathedral of the Holy Spirit in Istanbul, the Pope urged the faithful not to lose heart because of their small numbers, but instead to recognize the profound witness that a humble community can offer to the world.
Catholics make up only about 0.05% of Türkiye’s 85 million people, one of the smallest Christian populations in the Middle East. Yet Pope Leo described the country as a “holy land” where the storylines of the Old and New Testaments intersect. He recalled the biblical journey of Abraham through Harran, the influence of ancient Christian centers such as Antioch and Ephesus, and the centuries-old legacy of Byzantine Christianity.
The Pope also paid tribute to the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople, led by Patriarch Bartholomew I, calling it a “point of reference” not only for Greek Orthodox believers but for Orthodox Christians worldwide. He stressed that this legacy should not remain a relic of the past but should inspire living faith today.
In an address to bishops, priests, religious, pastoral workers, and laypeople, Pope Leo encouraged the community to adopt an “evangelical vision” that sees reality through the light of the Holy Spirit especially when facing discouragement.
“When we look with God’s eyes,” he said, “we discover the way of littleness.” He used familiar Gospel images the mustard seed, Jesus’ preference for the humble and lowly, and the quiet growth of God’s kingdom to emphasize that the Church’s real power does not lie in numbers, institutions, or influence, but in staying united with Christ and open to the Spirit.
Quoting Jesus’ reassuring words, “Do not be afraid, little flock,” Pope Leo encouraged Turkish Catholics to nurture hope, noting signs of renewal such as the growing number of young people who are approaching the Church with curiosity and commitment.
In his message, the Pope urged Catholics in Türkiye to deepen their involvement in ecumenical and interreligious dialogue, a vital mission in a nation rich with diverse faith traditions. He also underscored the importance of teaching the faith to local communities and strengthening pastoral care for refugees and migrants many of whom seek stability and support within Church networks.
Recognizing that many Catholics in Türkiye come from other countries, Pope Leo highlighted the need for greater inculturation, encouraging them to make the language and culture of the nation “increasingly your own” so that their witness becomes more deeply rooted in local life.
Marking the 1700th anniversary of the First Council of Nicaea, the Pope reflected on the council’s enduring significance. He said it continues to challenge Christians with three essential questions:
1. What is the heart of our faith?
2. Who is Jesus for us today?
3. How can doctrine be shared in ways that speak to modern culture?
He warned against what he termed a “new Arianism” a modern trend that reduces Jesus to a moral leader or heroic figure, stripping away his divinity and sovereignty over history.
Before concluding, Pope Leo invoked the memory of St. John XXIII, who once served in Türkiye and maintained a deep affection for its people. Recalling the saint’s image of Bosporus fishermen who labor faithfully through the night, the Pope encouraged Turkish Catholics to adopt the same perseverance, working “with joy and courage in the Lord’s boat.”
The gathering took place in the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit, built in 1846 and home to relics of early popes, including St. Linus. In its courtyard stands a statue of Pope Benedict XV, honored for his humanitarian efforts during the First World War and remembered in Türkiye as a “benefactor of peoples, without distinction of nationality or religion.”
Pope Leo’s message rooted in humility, hope, and steadfastness left the small Catholic community of Türkiye with a renewed sense of mission, reminding them that even the tiniest seeds can bear fruit in God’s time.