Pope Leo XIV urged Latin American and Caribbean bishops to leave their desks and spend more time with their people, saying true shepherds must personally know and accompany their flock.
In a 8 September letter marking the 300th anniversary of the canonization of St Turibius of Mogrovejo, released by the Vatican on 19 September, the pope pointed to the 16th century missionary bishop’s travels across Peru as a model of pastoral leadership.
“Certain aspects of a diocese are hard to grasp from behind a desk,” Pope Leo wrote, encouraging bishops to make pastoral visits, listen to communities and seek out those rarely reached.
Drawing lessons from the rite welcoming a bishop to his cathedral, Pope Leo highlighted sacrifice, fidelity and humility. He urged bishops to remain close to priests, defend the vulnerable, nurture their spiritual lives and promote Eucharistic adoration. He also stressed communion with the Church and the Successor of Peter.
