Pope Leo XIV emphasized that every Catholic parish must demonstrate that Jesus, who offers a just and full life, is always nearby. The Pope encouraged parishes to act like a mother who welcomes, listens to, and supports her children without condemnation. He described the Lord as a caring Shepherd who constantly waits for and accompanies people, healing wounds and enabling them to become gifts to others. Before the Angelus, the Pope called on Catholics to embody peace and charity, rejecting opposition between different church factions. This visit to the Church of St. Mary of the Presentation marked the Pope's fourth parish visit in Rome leading up to Easter.
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Pope Leo XIV visited the Church of St. Mary of the Presentation in Rome on March 8, 2026, marking his fourth parish visit as bishop of Rome ahead of Easter.1
The parish serves neighborhoods facing poverty, violent crime, and drug issues.1
In his homily, Pope Leo urged parishes to demonstrate Jesus' nearness, acting like a caring mother that welcomes, listens, and supports without condemning.1
He emphasized showing youth—risking deception or disillusionment—a just, true, and full life amid challenges like lacking homes, jobs, or safe spaces.1
The faithful should find strength in the Eucharist and open their eyes to recognize Jesus in the suffering, becoming a gift to others.1
Pope Leo told young people and scouts that Jesus is close by in their homes and hearts, urging them to open the door to him.1
He encouraged children to make peace with everyone, overcoming disagreements without bullying or violence.1
Before the Angelus in St. Peter’s Square, the pope called Catholics to embody peace and charity, rejecting divisions between "us" and "them."1
Reflecting on the Gospel of the Samaritan woman (John 4:5-42), he praised Jesus' respect and listening, urging the Church to offer similar sensitivity.1
Quoting Etty Hillesum, he stressed freeing the heart to access spiritual springs blocked by life's "stones and grit."1
Pope Leo highlighted the parish's role in healing wounded spirits thirsting for hope and redeeming lives from evils.1
Such Lenten visits focus on difficult areas, fostering mature consciences through the Gospel.1
Pope Leo urges parishes to embody Jesus’ maternal care and unity
What aspects of Jesus' maternal care—from scenes like the cross (Jn 19:26-27) or his self-description as a hen gathering chicks (Mt 23:37)—do you see parishes called to reflect today?
How might embodying this foster the unity Pope Leo XIV emphasizes as a "leaven" in divided parishes and the world?
What practical step could a parish take first?