Pope Leo XIV Says Liturgy Sustains Church, Strengthens Christian Faith

Pope Leo XIV has emphasized the central role of the Sacred Liturgy in the life of the Catholic Church, describing it as the source of spiritual strength, unity, and renewal for Christians.

Speaking during his Wednesday General Audience at St. Peter's Square, the Pope continued his catechesis on the Second Vatican Council, focusing on Sacrosanctum Concilium, the Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy.

According to the Pontiff, the liturgy is not simply a collection of rituals, but a living encounter through which Christ continues to guide and sanctify the Church through the Holy Spirit.

“In the holy liturgy, Christ continues to act,” Pope Leo XIV said, adding that every Eucharistic celebration becomes “a true epiphany of the Church in prayer.”

The Pope explained that the Paschal Mystery — the Passion, Death, Resurrection, and Glorification of Christ — is made present in the liturgy, drawing believers into deeper communion with God and with one another.

He further noted that the Church’s faith is expressed and strengthened through the proclamation of the Word of God, the celebration of the Sacraments, communal prayer, sacred gestures, and moments of silence.

Describing the liturgy as “the summit toward which the activity of the Church is directed,” the Pope said the Church’s mission, including preaching, charity, and service to the poor, flows from worship centred on Christ and ultimately returns to it.

The Holy Father also urged Christians to allow participation in the liturgy to shape their daily lives through holiness, charity, and faithful witness.

He said the presence of Christ in the liturgy forms believers into one body and serves as a sign of unity for the entire human family.

As the Church prepares for Pentecost, Pope Leo XIV called on Christians worldwide to pray for the Holy Spirit to renew hearts, overcome violence and injustice, and bring peace to the world.

Source: Choiceflame