Pope Leo XIV addresses 147 newly appointed bishops at the Vatican

Pope Leo XIV met with 147 newly appointed bishops at the Vatican following the conclusion of an annual formation course organized by the Dicastery for Bishops and the Dicastery for Evangelization. The bishops, representing five continents, participated in training sessions covering mission, liturgy, and the prevention of abuse.

During the audience, the Pope emphasized that bishops must first be disciples, urging them to maintain a deep personal relationship with God through the Eucharist, prayer, and the Word of God. He instructed the prelates to possess the heart of a Good Shepherd, which involves loving the people entrusted to them, listening to their stories, and being physically present in their lives.

The Pope also highlighted the importance of pastoral care (sollicitudo pastoralis), advising bishops to be fathers and brothers to priests and deacons, and to show special attention to elderly and sick clergy. Additionally, he noted that technology cannot resolve humanity's deepest problems and called for an open heart toward all people, including those of different faiths or no faith at all.