On February 11, 2025, the Holy Father Francis addressed a letter to the Bishops of the United States, in which he offers them words of encouragement, spiritual guidance, and a call to unity in their pastoral mission. This message, full of deep reflection and hope, comes at a time when the Church in the United States faces challenges both internally and externally.
The Pope begins his letter by acknowledging the tireless work of the bishops in guiding their communities, especially in times of difficulty. “You are shepherds who walk with your people, sharing their joys and their sufferings,” the Pontiff writes. He reminds them that their main task is to be witnesses of the Gospel, bringing the light of Christ to a world that often seems plunged into darkness.
One of the central themes of the letter is the importance of ecclesial communion. The Holy Father stresses that, in a context marked by divisions and polarizations, bishops are called to be promoters of unity within the Church. “Communion is not uniformity, but the harmony of diversity in the Holy Spirit,” he says. He urges them to work together, overcoming personal or ideological differences, to strengthen the evangelizing mission of the Church.
Pope Francis also addresses the specific pastoral challenges facing the Church in the United States, including secularization, the crisis of faith among young people and the need for renewed attention to families. He encourages them to be creative in their ministry, seeking new ways to reach out to those who are estranged and to accompany those who seek spiritual answers.
In a particularly moving passage, the Holy Father expresses his closeness to the bishops amid the criticisms and challenges they face. “Do not be afraid of difficulties,” he tells them, “because the Lord is with you and gives you the strength to go forward.” He reminds them that their pastoral authority does not come from themselves, but from Christ, who has called them to serve his people.
The letter concludes with an invitation to hope and trust in divine Providence. Pope Francis asks them to continue to be beacons of light in the midst of darkness, guiding their faithful toward a personal encounter with Jesus Christ. “May Mary, Mother of the Church, accompany you in your ministry and protect you always,” he concludes.
This message from the Holy Father Francis is a powerful reminder of the importance of unity, faith, and hope in the life of the Church. The bishops of the United States, upon receiving these words, feel strengthened in their mission to be pastors according to the heart of Christ.
To read the full letter in its original language, visit the official link of the Holy See: Letter of the Holy Father Francis to the Bishops of the United States.
