This morning, Pope Leo XIV received Bishop Fernando Ocáriz in private audience, accompanied by his auxiliary vicar, Bishop Mariano Fazio. The meeting, which took place in an atmosphere of great trust and closeness, allowed them to discuss various aspects related to the present and future of Opus Dei worldwide.

During the audience, Monsignor Ocáriz expressed to the Pope the deep union, affection and adherence of all members of Opus Dei to the Holy Father and the universal Church, as well as their constant prayer for him and for the intentions he carries in his heart.

They discussed the prospects and challenges of the evangelizing work carried out by Opus Dei on various continents, especially in the context of its approaching centenary (founded in 1928 by Saint Josemaría Escrivá). Pope Leo XIV reported that the process of adapting the statutes of the Personal Prelature of Opus Dei—initiated following previous provisions—is still under review at the Holy See, and no specific publication date can be predicted at this time.

Another topic discussed was the situation of vocations in the Church, highlighting the striking contrast between the growth in Africa and the reality in Europe. Furthermore, Monsignor Ocáriz explained to the Pope Opus Dei’s institutional perspective on some specific controversies that have recently arisen in Argentina.

As a gesture of affection, Monsignor Ocáriz gave the Holy Father two books:

• The Church in the Street . The reception of Gaudium et spes in six holy pastors , a recent work by the Augustinian priest Ramón Sala González, which includes a chapter dedicated to Saint Josemaría Escrivá.
• Yauyos, an adventure in the Andes , a story by Father Samuel Valero about the evangelizing work of Opus Dei priests in two provinces of Peru.

At the conclusion of the audience, Pope Leo XIV imparted his apostolic blessing, which he expressly extended to all members of Opus Dei and to the many people who participate in its apostolates throughout the world.

Source: Opus Dei