The Vatican was the scene of a profound journey of faith following the canonization of seven new saints from around the world. Pope Leo XIV, during a meeting with pilgrims in the Paul VI Hall, emphasized that these figures—including martyrs, religious women, and lay people—represent “luminous signs of hope and love,” and invited the faithful to follow their example in their daily lives.

A call for unity among Venezuelans

The Pontiff recalled the pastoral letter issued by the bishops of Venezuela on October 7, on the occasion of the canonization of Saint José Gregorio Hernández and Saint Carmen Rendiles. In it, the prelates exhorted the Venezuelan people to rediscover fraternity and look to the future with hope.
“May this event serve as an encouragement for all Venezuelans to recognize themselves as children and brothers of the same homeland,” said Leo XIV to the thousands of faithful present, many of them from Latin America.

Faith, hope and charity: virtues that transform

In his message, delivered in Spanish, English, and Italian, the Pope reflected on the virtues that marked the lives of the new saints. “God transformed the simple existence of ordinary men and women into lamps that illuminate the world with a new light,” he noted.
He also emphasized that faith, hope, and charity are pillars that can renew today’s society: “Each of us is called to the same holiness; we must look upon one another as a brother or sister to be loved and respected.”

Martyrs and witnesses of the Gospel

During his address, Leo XIV praised the courage of the Armenian bishop, Saint Ignatius Choukrallah Maloyan, who was murdered for remaining faithful to Christ. “His testimony recalls the strength of the Armenian people, who carved the cross in stone as a symbol of unwavering faith,” the Pope affirmed, hoping that his example would inspire reconciliation and peace in that nation.

He also mentioned the Papuan catechist Saint Peter To Rot, who defended the values ​​of the Gospel during the Japanese occupation of World War II. “May his example encourage us to uphold the truth, even in the midst of trials,” the Pontiff urged.

Holiness that blossoms in service

The Pope also highlighted the dedication of Sisters Maria Troncatti, a Salesian dedicated to the indigenous peoples of Ecuador, and Vincenza Maria Poloni, founder of the Sisters of Mercy.
Of the former, he emphasized her “tireless charity that turned difficulties into opportunities for service.” Of the latter, he praised her “Marian spirituality and constant commitment to the sick and the most vulnerable.” “In service to the most vulnerable, holiness flourishes,” Leo XIV emphasized.

Bartolo Longo, the apostle of the Rosary

Among the new saints is Bartolo Longo, an Italian layman and founder of the Shrine of Pompeii. The Pope recalled his conversion and his life dedicated to works of mercy.
“His story teaches us that no one is far from God’s grace. I recommend the recitation of the Rosary to all the faithful, because contemplating the mysteries of Christ with Mary helps us live the Gospel day by day,” he said.

“Returning home with gratitude”

At the conclusion of the audience, Pope Leo XIV asked the pilgrims to return to their countries “with hearts full of gratitude and the desire to imitate the new saints.”
“They are witnesses that Christ’s love transforms the world,” he said. “May their example inspire us to build more just, supportive, and fraternal communities.”