VATICAN CITY — Pope Leo XIV has urged Italy’s Prefects—who represent the government’s executive authority in each province—to safeguard civil harmony so that “the poor may find welcome and essential services can reach all.”
Addressing the Prefects on Monday, the Pope recalled the historic ties between civil authority and the Church, pointing to St. Ambrose of Milan, who once served as Prefect before becoming Bishop.
Key Highlights from Pope Leo XIV’s Address
- Civil harmony is essential for protecting the vulnerable.
Prefects help ensure that “the elderly find peace of mind, families and the young receive services, and the sick are supported.” - Common good goes beyond material needs.
The Pope said the common good must include the “moral and spiritual heritage” of the Italian Republic. - Public order means fighting crime AND cultural decay.
He warned against “violence, falsehood, and vulgarity” that fracture social trust. - Civil servants must serve with integrity.
Prefects are called to uphold the nation’s good with “interior discipline and an upright conscience.” - AI and new technologies pose challenges—but also opportunities.
The Pope encouraged the use of technology to ensure all residents benefit from public services. - Church–State cooperation remains strong.
Pope Leo XIV reaffirmed the Church’s commitment to collaborating for Italy’s welfare.
He ended by thanking Italy’s civil servants for fostering a “conscious, honest, and active” style of citizenship.