Pope Leo XIV meets with the Conference of Latin Bishops of the Arab Regions
His Holiness Pope Leo XIV received today, Thursday, September 3, 2026, the members of the Conference of Latin Bishops of the Arab Regions, delivering a powerful message to the Churches living amid conflict, migration, and tensions.
Among the bishops present was H.E. Bishop Aldo Berardi, Apostolic Vicar of Northern Arabia.
The Holy Father said: “Do not be afraid because you are few in number. The contribution of the Church is not measured by numbers, structures, or resources, but by fidelity to the Gospel.”
The Pope recalled the priests, religious men and women, and faithful who gave their lives in Iraq, Syria, and Yemen, stressing that their faithfulness remains a light and a call not to surrender to fear or despair.
Pope Leo XIV urged the bishops to remain close to their people and to give particular care to families, young people, and migrants in the Gulf countries. He also encouraged them to strengthen unity and dialogue with Muslims and with the various religious traditions.
His Holiness emphasized that the mission of the Church “is not merely to preserve the Christian presence, but to make Christ present.”
He added: “Be a voice for truth, justice, and peace; be men of prayer, shepherds close to your people, builders of reconciliation, and witnesses of mercy.”
