Friars encouraged by meeting with Pope Leo during Jubilee of Migrants

In a unique and meaningful moment at the Jubilee of the Missions and Migrants in Rome, Pope Leo XIV welcomed and inspired members of the National Catholic Council for Hispanic Ministry. Among the 100 U.S. pilgrims present, Brothers Lalo Jara, OFM, and Luis Manuel Rosado, OFM, were honored with entry into the San Damaso courtyard of the Apostolic Palace, an area typically reserved for heads of state and dignitaries, where they received a heartfelt greeting and encouragement from the pope. 

The pontiff recognized the dawning of a new missionary age, urging attendees to approach their mission to Hispanics in the United States with compassion and solidarity. 

“It is a joy to meet you all and to be able to give you a blessing,” Pope Leo told the group gathered. “You, through the service you offer in ministry, are clearly that testimony that is so important, perhaps especially in the United States, but also throughout the world, a world that suffers so much from war, violence and hatred. 

“You have a very great task in your hands, to accompany people who truly, deeply need a sign that God never abandons anyone: the least, the poorest, the stranger, everyone,” the pope added. 

Reconciliation, pilgrimage and renewal 

The Jubilees of the Missions and Migrants attracted tens of thousands of pilgrims from over 100 countries to Rome for a dual celebration of the Church’s mission to share the joy and love of the Gospel with everyone, especially those who are experiencing hardship. These events are part of the Jubilee Year of Hope commemorating 2,025 years since the Incarnation of Jesus Christ. Jubilee activities encourage Catholics to both receive and share God’s mercy. 

Members of the National Catholic Council for Hispanic Ministry, a network that supports the religious, social, professional and civic advancement of Roman Catholic Hispanics in the United States, made the pilgrimage together to pray for the communities they serve. Their ministry comes at a time when changes to immigration policies in the United States have sown fear and confusion among immigrant communities. 

Br. Lalo found Pope Leo's observations on mission and migration inspirational. The Holy Father urged leaders to focus their ministry on migrants entering or already living in the U.S. 

“Instead of evangelizing in other places, we need to focus inside,” Br. Lalo said. “Our mission today is to serve those coming to us and those with us. Many live in fear every day. How can we serve them better?” 

Spiritual support through pastoral care and fraternity 

Pope Leo met with each pilgrim after his talk, offering encouragement to carry out their ministry, said Br. Lalo. He and others recognized the challenges facing Hispanic immigrants cited by the pope. Leaders present felt committed to those who need a sign that God abandons no one, through pastoral care and walking with them. 

“We talk about things we sometimes have no answers for,” Br. Lalo said. “To speak with other leaders facing a variety of challenges is renewing. You are not by yourself. You meet people you can bring in for retreats or workshops, and you bring back the energy of hearing that the pope sees and supports your efforts.” 

Br. Lalo underlined the critical importance of providing spiritual support to the Hispanic community in this ministry. Those who find themselves in difficult situations seek solace and safety in their faith, he said. Prayer, retreats and spiritual guidance can help address feelings of isolation and uncertainty about the future. 

Leadership in attendance expressed a strong commitment to enhancing support for the most vulnerable people, with particular attention to Hispanic migrants, whom they serve through their pastoral work in parishes, dioceses and related organizations. 

Migrants “want us to be with them, to pray with them,” Br. Lalo said. “Resources like food pantries are important, but they are thirsty for something more. They work all day, sometimes in fear, but when they come to church, they feel secure. They feel at home with other Hispanics. And that's what we can bring.”