Pope Leo XIV honors Portuguese soldiers and calls for active faith

Pope Leo XIV has addressed several key themes during recent audiences and messages, including a tribute to two Portuguese soldiers who died while providing roadside assistance on the A1 highway. The Pontiff likened their selfless act to the parable of the Good Samaritan, praying for the deceased soldiers, Pedro Alexandre Girão Gonçalves and Francisco José Abrantes Oliveira, and their families.

In a general audience at St. Peter’s Basilica, the Pope also discussed the liturgical reforms of the Second Vatican Council. He emphasized that the faithful must participate in the liturgy “consciously and actively” rather than remaining “silent and passive spectators.” He urged Catholics to remain open to change and to avoid treating religion as a “mere tradition.”

Additionally, the Pope’s recent episcopal appointments, including several described as pro-LGBTQ+, have drawn attention from various media outlets regarding the Church's evolving social stances.