Vatican City: Pope Leo XIV on Monday warmly welcomed a group of pilgrims from Spain and encouraged them to follow Jesus by drawing inspiration from the lives of the saints, especially their parish patron, St. Thomas of Villanova.
Pope met pilgrims from the Parish of Santo Tomás de Villanueva during the Octave of Christmas. The group had travelled nearly 1,900 kilometres from Alcalá de Henares to Rome on pilgrimage.
Expressing joy at their visit, Pope Leo thanked them for supporting the Successor of Peter through their prayers and generosity. Reflecting on their parish’s namesake, the Pope said St. Thomas of Villanova was deeply open to God’s action in his life, which enabled him to do great good for both the Church and society.
Pope noted that the saint’s life and writings reveal a constant desire to remain in God’s presence through prayer. This deep interior life, he said, helped St. Thomas listen attentively to God’s word and respond faithfully to his call.
Pope Leo also highlighted the saint’s tireless work and apostolic zeal, describing them as a challenge in a world that increasingly seeks quick and easy solutions. He said the saint’s simplicity, sobriety, and dedication remind people to recognize their God given gifts and use them in service of others.
Recalling St. Thomas of Villanova’s love for the poor, which earned him the title the almoner of God, the Pope praised the pilgrims for continuing this spirit through charitable works in their parish. He thanked them for their concrete gestures of care and solidarity.
At the end of the audience, Pope Leo encouraged the pilgrims to continue their journey of faith by following Christ and learning from the example of the saints. He imparted his blessing and entrusted them to the care of the Virgin Mary, praying that they would always be accompanied and strengthened in their mission.