Pope Leo XIV addressed leaders of lay associations and charismatic movements on Friday, urging them to always place Jesus at the heart of their efforts. He emphasized that this focus on Christ is the core purpose of their work, and that any charisms or spiritual gifts are meant to serve this central mission.
The Pope’s remarks were made during a gathering in Rome of moderators, international leaders, and delegates from ecclesial associations that are recognized or established by the Holy See. The meeting, organized by the Dicastery for Laity, Family, and Life, is an annual event for leaders of these movements and associations.
The Role of Institutional and Charismatic Groups
Pope Leo made a distinction between two types of ecclesial groups: institutional and charismatic. Institutional groups are those founded with the aim of carrying out specific apostolic, charitable, or liturgical activities, or supporting Christian witness in various social contexts. On the other hand, charismatic groups arise from a spiritual inspiration, bringing forth new forms of spirituality and evangelization.
While both types of groups play vital roles in the Church, Pope Leo reminded the leaders that both should be seen through the lens of grace. He explained that institutional groups exist to offer grace to the faithful, while charismatic gifts are given to help individuals receive and bear fruit from that grace.
Referring to the teachings of St. John Paul II, the Pope emphasized that both hierarchical and charismatic gifts are essential to the divine structure of the Church founded by Jesus Christ. They work together in harmony, each contributing to the Church’s mission.
Unity and Mission: Key Priorities for the Church
Pope Leo then turned his focus to the importance of unity and mission, which he identified as fundamental to the life of the Church and key priorities of the papacy. He urged all ecclesial associations and movements to cooperate closely with the Pope, especially in promoting these two critical aspects of the Church’s work.
He specifically called on these groups to act as “a leaven of unity,” spreading the unity they experience within their own organizations throughout the broader Church community.
In addition, the Pope invited them to maintain a spirit of missionary zeal, encouraging them to keep their passion for spreading the Gospel alive, and to use their spiritual gifts in service of the Church’s mission.
Imitating Christ: The Path to Joy and Freedom
To conclude his message, Pope Leo reminded his audience that the ultimate purpose of any charism is to bring people closer to Christ and help build up the Church. He pointed out that all are called to imitate Christ, who “emptied Himself to enrich us,” and in doing so, become a source of spiritual freedom and joy.
Whether united for a common apostolic goal or drawn together by a charismatic gift, the Pope reminded the leaders that their mission is to enrich others through selflessness. This “emptying of self,” he explained, leads to true freedom and a profound joy in service.
