Vatican City: Pope Leo XIV on Thursday encouraged the Catholic Church to remain rooted in truth while always expressing it with charity, as he met a delegation from the Archdiocese of Cologne in Germany. The meeting took place on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the Diocesan Office for the Universal Church and Dialogue, a body known for promoting global solidarity and cooperation.
Speaking to the delegation, Pope highlighted the universal nature of the Church and its mission to reach all people. He said the Church does not impose itself but shares its message through witness and love. He stressed that dialogue plays a key role in building understanding among people and strengthening unity within the Church.
Pope explained that in the light of Christ’s resurrection, the Church is sent out into the world with a mission of peace. He noted that dialogue helps open paths between cultures and communities, making the Church a visible sign of hope and unity in a world often marked by division and conflict.
Pope Leo XIV praised the Archdiocese of Cologne for what he described as a prophetic openness to the universal dimension of the Church. He said this openness is seen in its commitment to encounter, exchange and meaningful dialogue with others across the world.
Recalling its long history of international engagement, the Pope pointed to the Archdiocese’s partnership with the Archdiocese of Tokyo, which began in 1954. He also highlighted the creation of major aid initiatives such as Misereor and Adveniat, which have supported communities facing poverty and hardship, especially in regions outside Europe.
He noted that Cologne has played an important role in global Church cooperation by helping to establish networks like the Meeting of Aid Agencies for the Eastern Churches. Through such efforts, the Archdiocese has supported people affected by war, natural disasters and economic struggles, while also strengthening ties between different parts of the Catholic world.
Pope also mentioned practical support initiatives, including scholarships for seminarians and assistance for elderly priests. He personally recalled how the Archdiocese supported his former diocese in Peru by providing oxygen producing machines during a time of urgent need, a contribution that helped save many lives.
Through these efforts, Pope Leo XIV said, the Church’s universal mission becomes visible and real. Acts of generosity and solidarity, he noted, help build stronger bonds of unity and bring the message of the Gospel into concrete action.
In his concluding remarks, Pope urged the Archdiocese of Cologne to continue its work of charity, especially in supporting Christians in the Middle East and others who have been forced to leave their homes due to conflict and hardship. He encouraged them to remain close to those in need so they can feel the care and presence of the wider Church.
The meeting served as a reminder of the importance of unity, dialogue and shared responsibility within the global Catholic community, as the Church continues its mission in a complex and changing world.