Pope Leo XIV Urges ‘Courage to Love’ in Catholic-Anabaptist Dialogue

As Mennonites gathered in Zurich to commemorate the 500th anniversary of the Anabaptist movement, Pope Leo XIV sent a message encouraging Catholics and Mennonites to reflect on their shared history with honesty, kindness, and love.

Marking the quincentenary of a movement born in 16th-century Friesland, the Pope recalled the Risen Jesus' greeting to His disciples: “Peace be with you!” and emphasized that the commemoration falls within the Easter season, symbolizing renewal and hope.

“The motto chosen for your celebration, ‘The Courage to Love,’ reminds us of the need for Catholics and Mennonites to live the commandment of love, pursue Christian unity, and serve others,” Leo stated.

Acknowledging the often painful shared history between Catholics and Anabaptists, the pope urged both communities to be courageous in their ongoing dialogue. “Let us be honest and kind when reflecting on the wounds and narratives that still shape our relationships today,” he said.

He emphasized the importance of sustained theological and pastoral dialogue, even when the journey is difficult. “This is certainly no easy task! Yet, it was precisely at moments of trial that Christ revealed the Father’s will,” he noted.

Drawing from Scripture, Pope Leo cited Jesus’ commandments to love God and neighbor and His prayer for unity before His Passion: “That all may be one… so that the world may believe” (Jn 17:21).

The pope quoted St. Augustine’s Confessions: “My entire hope is exclusively in your very great mercy. Grant what you command, and command what you will.”

In conclusion, Pope Leo XIV expressed hope that this renewed journey of reconciliation and fraternity can serve as a beacon of light in today’s fractured world.

“The more united Christians are, the more powerful our witness to Christ, the Prince of Peace, in building a civilization of loving encounter,” the Pope affirmed.