On the afternoon of May 2nd, St. Peter’s Basilica was filled with solemnity and hope. Beneath Michelangelo’s imposing dome, Pope Leo XIV presided over the Holy Mass of Episcopal Ordination for the new auxiliary bishops who will collaborate in the pastoral work of the Diocese of Rome.

The ceremony, steeped in ancient symbolism, marked a milestone in the pontificate of Leo XIV, who since his election has emphasized the need for a Church that goes forth and is close to the existential peripheries. During the rite, the chosen priests, prostrate on the ground while the Litany of the Saints was sung, symbolized the total dedication of their lives to the service of God and the faithful.

In his address, the Holy Father emphasized that the episcopate is the name of a service, not an honor. “The bishop must strive more to serve than to dominate,” the Pontiff affirmed, looking directly at the new bishops. The laying on of hands and the presentation of the Gospel, the ring, the mitre, and the crosier sealed a commitment that, in the words of Leo XIV, seeks to strengthen the unity of the Church in times of great global challenges.

The atmosphere of prayer extended to the thousands of faithful present, who joyfully welcomed their new pastors, called to be bridges of reconciliation and beacons of hope in the Eternal City.

Full text of the homily:

(English translation of the original Italian text)

“Dear brothers and sisters:

Consider carefully what a high ecclesial responsibility these brothers of ours are being promoted to. Our Lord Jesus Christ, sent by the Father to redeem mankind, in turn sent the twelve Apostles into the world so that, filled with the power of the Holy Spirit, they might proclaim the Gospel, sanctify the nations, and guide them on the path of salvation.

To perpetuate this apostolic ministry from generation to generation, the Twelve chose collaborators, to whom they transmitted the gift of the Spirit through the laying on of hands. Today, the Church continues this tradition.

In the Bishop, surrounded by his priests, it is Jesus Christ himself, the High Priest, who remains present among you. It is Christ who, through the ministry of the Bishop, preaches the Word of God and administers the sacraments of faith.

As for you, dear sons chosen for the order of the episcopate, remember that you have been taken from among men and placed at the service of men in matters pertaining to God. The episcopate is a service, not an honor. Therefore, the bishop must be distinguished more by service than by power, according to the Master’s command: ‘Whoever is greatest among you must become like the least.’

Proclaim the Word at all times, whether opportune or inconvenient. Love with a father’s and brother’s love all those whom God entrusts to you: especially the poor, the weak, and those who seek the path of truth. Encourage the faithful to collaborate in the apostolic work and listen to them patiently.

Watch over with love the whole flock, in which the Holy Spirit places you to sustain the Church of God. In the name of the Father, whom you represent in the Church; in the name of his Son, Jesus Christ, whose office you hold as teachers, priests, and shepherds; and in the name of the Holy Spirit, who gives life to the Church and strengthens our weakness.

Amen.”