Pope Leo XIV Letter to French Bishops, Digi Mart USA News (Lourdes, France): France’s bishops have been gathered in Lourdes for their autumn plenary assembly since November 3. For the occasion, Pope Leo XIV sent them a letter.
In the letter, the pope first expressed his gratitude for the remarkable organization of his visit. He said he wished to renew the expression of his thanks to the bishops.
The pope also invited the bishops to deepen their reflections on themes such as supporting young people and education. Leo XIV recalled that societies need people inspired by the teachings of the Gospel to face the various crises in the world.
He stated that Catholic education cannot abandon its educational project centered on Christ, which aims at the integral development of the human person in all dimensions: spiritual, cultural, intellectual, moral and social.
Considering the importance of forming men and women in Christian values, the pope emphasized the importance of listening to younger generations, including in their unease, and encouraging them to engage in truth, including in politics, through solid formation.
Leo XIV also addressed the accompaniment of victims of abuse within the Catholic Church, a continuation of work he had initiated during his trip to France. Citing the link between holiness and charity in truth, he encouraged the bishops to continue supporting people who have suffered sexual violence and coercive control.
The pope concluded that it is essential for the community of the faithful to be ever more a place where men and women of all ages can find comfort and healing.
