Vatican City: Pope Leo XIV on Monday urged Italian civil servants to safeguard social harmony and ensure that government services reach every citizen, especially the poor and vulnerable.
Speaking to the Prefects of the Italian Republic, who represent the government at the provincial level, Pope highlighted their responsibility to uphold the rule of law and promote the common good so that all people can benefit equally from public services.
He recalled the ancient link between Prefects and Bishops during the Roman Empire, when both oversaw different aspects of citizens’ lives. Pope pointed to St. Ambrose of Milan, who served as a city Prefect before being chosen by the people as Bishop, and later used his spiritual authority to serve the community.
Pope Leo said that even today the Church and the Italian State cooperate in caring for people’s spiritual and social needs. He noted that the present time, marked by conflicts and international tensions, makes it even more important to protect the common good, which includes moral and spiritual values and not only material concerns.
He said social harmony allows the poor to find welcome, offers peace of mind to the elderly, and ensures that families, young people, and the sick receive essential services. Maintaining public order, he added, requires fighting crime while also resisting violence, falsehood, and vulgarity that divide society.
Pope reminded civil servants that serving the nation requires integrity, discipline, and a clear conscience. He praised Prefects for promoting cooperation among state institutions while maintaining professional responsibility and ethical conduct.
He also stressed their crucial role during emergencies such as natural disasters and other dangers, when solidarity, courage, and justice become visible in service to the nation.
Addressing modern challenges, Pope Leo acknowledged the growing impact of new technologies, including artificial intelligence, and encouraged officials to use them in ways that benefit all residents.
He concluded by assuring the collaboration and respect of the Catholic Church for the good of the Italian State and thanked civil servants for fostering a citizenship that is conscious, honest, and active.