Carolina Bellocq
San Marino, the world’s oldest republic, recently welcomed Pope Leo XIV for a brief visit to mark 100 years of diplomatic relations with the Holy See.
In this country of just 35,000 inhabitants, the pope delivered a speech to local officials in which he spoke about the values of freedom and democracy.
He then stepped out onto a balcony to greet the people gathered in the square.
POPE LEO XIV
Best wishes to all of you. May you always live in authentic freedom, the authentic freedom found in Christ Jesus, and in the truth. And may you always be united in this spirit of welcome. Best wishes to you all!
At the cathedral, Pope Leo prayed before the remains of St. Marino, the country’s patron saint. He then met with priests, religious and consecrated men and women, as well as representatives of the local Church.
His message to the young people was especially significant. He echoed the words of his predecessor, St. John Paul II, with his famous call: “Do not be afraid.”
POPE LEO XIV
Do not be afraid to make demanding choices such as marriage, consecrated life, ordained ministry, a professional career, or social and political engagement. Prepare yourselves as best you can for the responsibilities that lie ahead. Get involved in initiatives and projects promoting charity and justice. In this way, you too will contribute to giving “a witness of peace that speaks to the world,” as the motto of this visit states.
Since, only a small number of people were able to enter the cathedral, many followed the visit from outside. Afterwards, Pope Leo XIV went out to greet them and repeated the famous invitation from the Polish pope.
POPE LEO XIV
Good morning! Greetings to you all! So, you heard a little of it during the speech… I will repeat the same words, beginning with: Open the door to your heart, always listen to Jesus Christ, and never be afraid to listen to what Jesus wants to say to each of you.
Before heading on to the Italian city of Rimini, Pope Leo made one more stop: at a community of Augustinian nuns, where he spent time with them and shared a meal.
