Pope Leo XIV encouraged Catholic communities to become places of compassion and closeness during a pastoral visit to the Parish of Santa Maria della Presentazione on March 8, 2026, urging parishes to reflect a Church that truly “cares for her children.”
Addressing parishioners in Rome, the Holy Father spoke about the mission of local parishes in areas facing poverty and social challenges. He emphasized that the Church must remain close to those who are wounded, struggling, or searching for hope. According to the pope, a parish should embody the loving presence of a mother who welcomes and accompanies all her children, especially those who feel forgotten or marginalized.
During the visit, Pope Leo highlighted the importance of pastoral closeness, encouraging priests, volunteers, and parish communities to listen attentively to the needs of families, the elderly, and young people. He stressed that Christian communities must not remain distant from the difficulties people face but should instead become living signs of Christ’s compassion and mercy in everyday life.
The pope’s message also underlined the evangelical mission of parishes to bring hope to those experiencing hardship. By fostering solidarity, prayer, and concrete acts of charity, he said, local churches can reveal the face of Christ and remind the faithful that the Church remains a spiritual home where every person is welcomed and cared for.