Visiting the Pontifical Ecclesiastical Academy on the occasion of its 325th anniversary, Pope Leo XIV reflects on the figure of the pontifical diplomatic priest: a messenger of peace, called to defend the entire human family, not only the Catholic community.
By Benedetta Capelli
On Monday, 27 April, Pope Leo visited the Pontifical Academy in Rome, emphasising “the special vocation at the service of peace, truth and justice” to which the pontifical diplomatic priest is called. The meeting coincided with the 325th anniversary of the institution’s foundation, which the Pope had already visited before being elected to the Chair of Peter, when he was Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops.
Unity in Christ
Pope Leo expressed “profound gratitude” for the “history of dedication and service” celebrated by this joyful anniversary. It is an important history, made possible by priests from across the world who have contributed “with their humble efforts to building that unity in Christ which, amid the diversity of origins, makes communion a defining characteristic of the Diplomatic Corps of the Holy See.”
An exercise in conversion
Pope Leo reflected on the reforms that have given the institution “the autonomy needed to renew the structure of studies in law, history, political science and economics, alongside the study of languages used in international relations.” Yet there is an even more important reform, he emphasised that it is that of a constant exercise of conversion, aimed at cultivating “closeness, attentive listening, witness, a fraternal approach and dialogue […] combined with humility and gentleness”, all virtues that must permeate your entire priestly ministry.
Bridges that shape history
Recalling saints, blesseds and Popes who have shaped the Academy’s history, the Pope highlighted the distinctive role of the pontifical diplomatic priest: “a messenger of the Easter proclamation: ‘Peace be with you!’”. Even when hopes for dialogue and reconciliation seem to fade, he continues, it remains essential to bring to all the words of the Risen Christ: “I leave you peace, I give you my peace.”
“Your mission calls you to be “bridges” and “channels”, so that the grace that comes from heaven may find its way into the folds of history”, he said.
Pope Leo visits the Pontifical Ecclesiastical Academy in Rome (@VATICAN MEDIA)
A sign of Christ’s love
Another task of the pontifical diplomat is to bring the Truth – who is Christ – into the assembly of nations, “becoming a sign of His love for that portion of humanity entrusted to his care — first as a pastor, and only then as a diplomat.” Pope Leo reiterated, as he did in his address to the Diplomatic Corps accredited to the Holy See at the beginning of the year, that words carry weight and must once again “express realities clearly and unambiguously,” so as to foster “authentic dialogue without misunderstanding”, bearing witness to what has become flesh.
Promoters of justice
The then Pope broadened his perspective to embrace the whole human family, since the diplomat’s ministry is not limited to the Catholic community.
“This calls you to be promoters of every form of justice that helps to recognise, restore and protect the image of God imprinted in every person”, he said.
Guardians of human dignity
“In a world marked by tension,” the Pope continues, “which seems to make conflict the only way of addressing needs and demands, our efforts to commit ourselves to dialogue, listening and reconciliation may appear insufficient, at times even futile.”
A visit of encouragement
In his greeting, Archbishop Salvatore Pennacchio, President of the Pontifical Ecclesiastical Academy, underlined that the Pope’s visit is “a source of encouragement along the path of preparation for service in the diplomacy of the Holy See.” He also extended his best wishes to Cardinal Pietro Parolin on the 46th anniversary of his priestly ordination, which took place on 27 April 1980.
Pope Leo with Archbishop Pennacchio (@VATICAN MEDIA)
