Pope Leo XIV stressed that sharing the Gospel today means welcoming migrants with open arms. During a major Jubilee Mass in St. Peter’s Square on October 5, 2025, he called on Catholics worldwide to see this as a core duty tied to faith and human dignity.
Pope’s Key Message at Jubilee Event
The pope spoke to tens of thousands gathered for the combined Jubilee of Migrants and Jubilee of Missions. He described a shift in how missions work in the modern world.
This event highlighted the connection between evangelism and support for those fleeing hardship. Pope Leo, born in the U.S. and a former missionary in Peru, drew from his own experiences to make his point clear.
He urged believers not to ignore the struggles of migrants. Instead, he said, true mission involves staying put and offering help right where people arrive.
Shift from Traditional Missions
For years, missions meant traveling to far-off places to spread faith and aid the poor. Now, Pope Leo explained, global changes bring those needs to our doorsteps.
Poverty and hope drive people across borders, he noted. Migrants’ stories of escape from violence show the real face of today’s challenges.
The pope warned against indifference or bias. He painted a vivid picture of boats seeking safe harbors and eyes full of fear and hope.
This new era calls for action at home. Hospitality becomes a way to live out Christian values without leaving one’s community.
Here are some key shifts in missionary work as outlined by the pope:
- From distant travels to local welcome.
- Focus on compassion over conquest.
- Building fraternity amid global migration.
Criticism of Political Stances
Pope Leo did not shy away from tough topics. He seemed to critique some U.S. policies on immigration, especially those linked to former President Donald Trump.
In recent comments, he questioned how people can claim to value life while supporting harsh treatment of immigrants. This ties into broader debates on what it means to be pro-life.
Such statements come amid ongoing U.S. immigration raids and global migration crises. The pope’s words add a moral voice to these heated issues.
He emphasized that no one should face exploitation as a foreigner. Human dignity must always lead the way.
Call for Personal Involvement
Every Catholic has a role in this mission, the pope said. It is not just for full-time missionaries or aid workers.
He praised those already helping migrants and building a culture of welcome. Yet, he insisted this work belongs to all, within their own limits.
Simple acts like offering support or fighting stereotypes make a difference. The pope encouraged turning away from individualism toward solidarity.
| Aspect of Mission | Traditional View | Modern Approach per Pope Leo |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Distant lands | Local communities |
| Action | Departing to evangelize | Remaining to welcome |
| Focus | Converting others | Showing compassion |
| Challenge | Geographical barriers | Indifference and prejudice |
Broader Impact on Church and Society
This Jubilee ties into the Holy Year 2025, a time for renewal in the Catholic Church. Events like this draw pilgrims from around the world to Rome.
Pope Leo’s message resonates with current trends. Migration numbers hit record highs in 2025, with millions displaced by conflict and climate issues.
His words inspire action beyond the church. They challenge societies to rethink borders and belonging.
Faith groups and governments alike take note. Some see this as a push for policy changes that prioritize humanity.
Looking Ahead to Ongoing Efforts
The pope’s exhortation builds on his first apostolic letter, signed days earlier. It focuses on poverty and justice, linking closely to migration themes.
As the Jubilee continues, more events will spotlight these issues. Catholics are called to carry this spirit into daily life.
This moment could spark lasting change in how faith communities respond to global needs.
Share your thoughts on how welcoming migrants fits into modern faith practices. Comment below or spread this article to start conversations in your circle.
