Pope Leo XIV Advocates for Unity and Humility in the Catholic Church

On October 26, 2025, during a Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica, Pope Leo XIV addressed the need for unity within the Catholic Church, urging members to avoid harmful polarizations between tradition and novelty. He emphasized that “the supreme rule in the Church is love,” calling for a community where no one imposes their ideas and all are encouraged to listen to one another. This message was part of the closing of the Jubilee of Synodal Teams and Participatory Bodies, which aimed to enhance the Church's synodal approach.

Pope Leo XIV: Don’t let tension between tradition, novelty become ‘harmful polarizations’Catholics must build a more humble church, seeking truth together, pope saysLA TimesAssociated Press

Pope Leo articulated that being a synodal Church involves recognizing that truth is not owned but sought collectively. He stated, “We must all humbly seek it and seek it together,” and highlighted the importance of expanding the “ecclesial space” to be more collegial and welcoming. The pontiff warned against spiritual pride, using the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector to illustrate the dangers of individualism that can lead to division within the Church.

Pope Leo XIV: Don’t let tension between tradition, novelty become ‘harmful polarizations’

Pope Leo's papacy has coincided with ongoing tensions regarding the Latin Mass, particularly following Pope Francis' restrictions in 2021. Cardinal Raymond Leo Burke celebrated a traditional Latin Mass in St. Peter’s Basilica shortly after Leo's election, marking a significant moment for traditionalist Catholics who felt marginalized under Francis. This event was seen as a hopeful sign of Leo's commitment to dialogue and reconciliation within the Church.

LA TimesAssociated PressPope Leo’s first six months: Unity, migrants, AI and a US style without the fireworksChurch must support concrete pro-family policies, pope says

In his homily, Pope Leo stated, “No one possesses the whole truth; we must all listen to one another,” reinforcing the idea that the Church should be a welcoming place for all. He called for a Church that serves rather than judges, urging Catholics to build a more humble community reflective of Gospel values. Following the Mass, he expressed solidarity with victims of recent floods in eastern Mexico, emphasizing the Church's role in responding to human suffering.

Pope Leo XIV: Don’t let tension between tradition, novelty become ‘harmful polarizations’

Despite the hopeful tone, some critics, including Tinner-Williams, have expressed concern that Leo's reserved approach may hinder efforts to heal divisions within the Church. They argue that a more outspoken stance is necessary to address the political polarization affecting the Church's unity.

Pope Leo’s first six months: Unity, migrants, AI and a US style without the fireworks

While many traditionalists are optimistic about Pope Leo's potential to ease tensions surrounding the Latin Mass, there are conflicting views on the effectiveness of his approach. Some believe that without a more assertive strategy, the divisions may persist, echoing sentiments from the previous papacy.

Associated Press

• “The supreme rule in the Church is love. No one is called to dominate; all are called to serve,” — Pope Leo XIV

Pope Leo XIV: Don’t let tension between tradition, novelty become ‘harmful polarizations’

• “We must dream of and build a more humble church,” — Pope Leo XIV

Catholics must build a more humble church, seeking truth together, pope says

• “The first signs of Pope Leo are those of dialogue and listening, truly listening to everyone.” — Rubén Peretó Rivas, Argentine organizer

Associated Press

Pope Leo XIV's early tenure reflects a commitment to fostering unity and humility within the Catholic Church, navigating the complexities of tradition and modernity while addressing the needs of a diverse global community.

Church must support concrete pro-family policies, pope says