Pope Leo XIV's Apostolic Exhortation: A Call to Action for the Poor

On October 4, 2025, Pope Leo XIV released his first Apostolic Exhortation titled "Dilexi Te" ("I Have Loved You"), which emphasizes the Church's commitment to the poor and marginalized. This document builds upon the teachings of his predecessor, Pope Francis, particularly his final encyclical, "Dilexit Nos," and reflects a continuity of thought regarding social justice within the Catholic Church.

The Spokesman-ReviewApostolic Exhortation Dilexi te Issued by Pope Leo XIVAmerica MagazineL'Osservatore RomanoPope Leo Urges Global Action for Migrants and Poor in First Major StatementBuenos Aires Times

Pope Leo's exhortation addresses various forms of poverty, including material deprivation, social marginalization, and moral and spiritual poverty. He critiques the prevailing economic systems that perpetuate inequality and calls for a "change in mentality" to prioritize the dignity of every human being. The Pope asserts that love for the poor is central to the Gospel, stating, “charity is not optional but a requirement of true worship” (No. 41). He emphasizes that the Church must be a "poor Church for the poor," urging Catholics to engage actively with those in need.

America Magazine

In "Dilexi Te," Pope Leo denounces an economic model that prioritizes wealth accumulation at the expense of the vulnerable. He warns against the "dictatorship of an economy that kills," highlighting the moral decay that arises from ignoring the plight of the poor and marginalized. The document critiques the notion that poverty has been significantly reduced, arguing that such claims often rely on outdated metrics that fail to capture contemporary realities (No. 14).

L'Osservatore Romano

A significant portion of the exhortation is dedicated to the plight of migrants and refugees. Pope Leo invokes the image of Alan Kurdi, a Syrian child whose tragic death symbolized the migrant crisis, to illustrate the urgent need for compassion and action. He echoes Pope Francis' call to "welcome, protect, promote, and integrate" migrants, asserting that the Church must accompany those who are marginalized and vulnerable (No. 75).

Buenos Aires Times

Pope Leo XIV's exhortation has been met with various reactions. Bishop Alan McGuckian described it as a "call to action," emphasizing the need for the Church to address the structural causes of poverty. Cardinal Michael Czerny noted that the document represents Leo's "full authorship and direction," while also acknowledging its roots in Francis' teachings. The exhortation has sparked discussions on the Church's role in advocating for social justice and the moral imperative to support the poor.

Bishop Alan McGuckian: Pope Leo’s first Apostolic Exhortation is a ‘call to action’

• “The Church, like a mother, accompanies those who are walking.” — Pope Leo XIV

L'Osservatore Romano

• “She knows that in every rejected migrant, it is Christ himself who knocks at the door of the community. Where the world sees threats, she sees children; where walls are built, she builds bridges.” — Pope Leo XIV

Pope Leo Urges Global Action for Migrants and Poor in First Major Statement

• “The number of people living in poverty should constantly weigh upon our consciences,” — Pope Leo XIV

Pope Leo Urges Global Action for Migrants and Poor in First Major Statement

• “Either we regain our moral and spiritual dignity, or we fall into a cesspool.” — Pope Leo XIV

Pope Leo Urges Global Action for Migrants and Poor in First Major Statement

Pope Leo XIV's "Dilexi Te" serves as a profound reminder of the Church's mission to prioritize the needs of the poor and marginalized. By calling for systemic changes and a deeper commitment to social justice, the Pope sets a clear agenda for his pontificate, urging Catholics to embody the love of Christ through tangible acts of compassion and solidarity.

Apostolic Exhortation Dilexi te Issued by Pope Leo XIV