Pope Leo XIV Urges Europe to Rediscover Unity and Overcome Divisions at General Audience
During his weekly General Audience on February 11, 2026, Pope Leo XIV called on Europe to rediscover its spiritual roots and work toward renewed unity amid ongoing political and religious tensions. Addressing pilgrims gathered in the Paul VI Hall, the Holy Father reflected on the legacy of Saints Cyril and Methodius, urging Europeans to draw inspiration from their missionary zeal and cultural vision.
Greeting Polish pilgrims in particular, the Pope highlighted the approaching liturgical memorial of Saints Cyril and Methodius, celebrated on February 14. He described them as fathers of Christianity, language and culture among the Slavic peoples and as Patrons of Europe. Their evangelizing mission, he said, helped shape not only faith communities but also the cultural identity of entire nations.
Pope Leo encouraged the faithful to return to the apostolic spirit embodied by the two saints, echoing the appeal once made by Saint John Paul II for a Europe that breathes with both East and West. He stressed that Europe’s renewal depends on overcoming divisions and antagonisms that continue to strain relations across the continent. According to the Pope, unity rooted in Christian values can offer a path beyond polarization and ideological conflict.
The General Audience also coincided with the World Day of the Sick. At the start of the gathering, Pope Leo lit a candle before the statue of the Blessed Virgin of Lourdes, marking her liturgical memorial. He entrusted the sick and their families to the maternal care of Mary and announced that he would later visit the Lourdes Grotto in the Vatican Gardens to offer prayers for those suffering from illness around the world.
Speaking in Spanish, the Pope noted that this year’s observance of the World Day of the Sick was being held at the Shrine of Our Lady of Peace in Chiclayo, Peru, a place he described as especially dear to him. He expressed his spiritual closeness to those participating in the event and mentioned that Cardinal Michael Czerny had been sent as his representative for the celebration.
Pope Leo also turned his attention to the victims of severe flooding in Colombia. He prayed for those who lost their lives and for families displaced or affected by the disaster. He urged the international community and local faithful to respond with generosity, solidarity and practical assistance for those in need.
Looking ahead to Lent, which begins next Wednesday, the Pope invited Christians to prepare their hearts for the season of prayer, fasting and almsgiving. In his remarks in English, he described Lent as a time to deepen knowledge and love of the Lord, examine one’s life honestly and refocus on the saving love of Christ.
Concluding the audience, Pope Leo expressed hope that the Lenten journey would strengthen believers in their daily commitment to carry their cross and follow Christ with renewed faith and perseverance.
