Rev. Daniel Groody, C.S.C., vice president and associate provost for undergraduate education, said that in Pope Leo XIV’s first apostolic exhortation, “Dilexi Te,” the pontiff “brings the message of Jesus into today’s world.”
“He emphasizes the deep connection between love of God and love for all people, especially the poor,” said Father Groody, who is also a professor of theology and global affairs. “Building on the legacy of his predecessors — particularly Pope Francis — he calls the Church to promote the bonds of solidarity rooted in God’s love for every member of the human family.
“In contrast to a society that is growing increasingly indifferent to the cries of the poor, Pope Leo places the dignity of every person at the heart of the Church’s mission.”
Father Groody stated that the exhortation also “affirms that Christian faith and social justice are inseparable,” saying that this message is “especially urgent in a world that marginalizes and dehumanizes migrants.”
“As Pope Leo writes, ‘In every rejected migrant, it is Christ himself who knocks at the door of the community,’” Father Groody said. “Pope Leo challenges us to respond with compassion and courage. In a world building higher walls, he urges us to build longer bridges. In a world increasingly fragmented, he calls us to be a unifying presence.
“And in a world paralyzed by fear, he invites us to promote justice, foster solidarity and help build a civilization of love — one that reflects God’s love for all creatures.”