Pope Leo Highlights the Heart of Christian Charity in Istanbul Visit
During his second day in Istanbul, Pope Leo spent time with the community of the Little Sisters of the Poor, offering a reflection on Christian charity that focused on presence, fraternity and the value of the elderly in societies shaped by rapid change. The visit, part of his larger apostolic journey marking the anniversary of the First Council of Nicaea, drew attention to the congregation’s longstanding mission of serving older adults who often experience social isolation. He told the sisters and residents that authentic Christian service begins with a willingness to share life rather than simply offering assistance, describing charity as a relationship that grows from being with others before attempting to act for them. His remarks highlighted the congregation’s name and its origins, pointing to Saint Jeanne Jugan’s founding vision as one that mirrors the life of Christ, who became a brother to humanity. The pope’s choice to visit a home for the elderly aligned with his emphasis on communities that carry memories, cultural identity and the lived wisdom of past generations, a theme he has consistently stressed since the start of his pontificate.
Speaking to residents, staff and benefactors, Pope Leo reflected on how modern societies frequently overlook older persons due to cultural pressures centered on productivity and material achievement. He stated that language surrounding age can lose its meaning when societies forget the dignity and worth of those who have carried families and communities across decades. He emphasized that Scripture and tradition view elders as custodians of memory and guardians of continuity, essential for shaping values and guiding younger generations. The pope recalled the teaching of Pope Francis, who described the elderly as a treasure for grandchildren and families, encouraging the community not to allow contemporary pressures to undermine this truth. He expressed gratitude for the sisters’ commitment to sustaining environments where the elderly are welcomed, cared for and valued, especially in societies where aging population trends frequently challenge social systems and family structures. His message urged the Church to maintain its commitment to those at risk of being marginalized by economic or cultural forces.
The pope concluded his encounter by thanking the Little Sisters of the Poor for their daily witness, describing their work as a quiet but powerful expression of the Gospel. He said their fidelity demonstrates that charity is rooted in patience, prayer and closeness rather than efficiency or prestige. His prayer for the community asked for renewed strength for all who serve and reside in the home, acknowledging the burdens many caregivers carry in environments shaped by shifting economic conditions and limited resources. The visit also served as a reminder that the Church’s global mission includes attention to vulnerable populations well beyond the more visible events of international diplomacy or large public gatherings. By choosing to spend part of his day in this setting, Pope Leo reinforced the centrality of compassion and fraternity at a time when many societies confront loneliness, demographic change and ethical questions surrounding the care of older adults.
