Pope Says Prayer Is Central to the Church’s Evangelizing Mission
Pope Leo XIV underscored the central role of prayer in the Church’s mission of evangelization during a Vatican audience with members of the Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network. Meeting the leadership and participants of the pontifical organization, the Pope described intercessory prayer as inseparable from the Church’s proclamation of the Gospel. He noted that prayer sustains evangelization by grounding pastoral action in spiritual discernment and solidarity with the needs of humanity. Addressing the global reach of the Network, the Pope expressed gratitude for its work in uniting millions of people around shared intentions that reflect both global challenges and the life of the Church, emphasizing that such prayer forms part of the Church’s daily witness.
The Pope reflected on the monthly prayer intentions distributed by the Network, explaining that they are selected through careful discernment to highlight issues affecting societies and faith communities worldwide. He thanked members for ensuring these intentions reach a broad international audience and for fostering a culture of prayer that transcends borders and cultures. According to the Pope, presenting these concerns before God each day is a concrete expression of communion within the Church. He stressed that prayer should not be seen as separate from pastoral and missionary efforts but as a vital force that animates them, shaping how believers respond to social, spiritual, and humanitarian concerns.
Pope Leo XIV also drew attention to the spiritual foundation of the Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network, which is rooted in devotion to the Heart of Jesus. He said this spirituality encourages believers to grow in compassion and attentiveness to others while deepening their personal relationship with Christ. Through this path, members are invited to integrate prayer into daily life and to see intercession as an essential aspect of Christian discipleship. The Pope expressed hope that the Network’s apostolate would continue to help the baptized recognize their shared responsibility as active participants in the Church’s mission.
Emphasizing the future of the Church, the Pope highlighted the importance of involving young people in prayer initiatives. He said young people are often searching for deeper meaning and personal connection with faith, and that participation in prayer offers a path toward spiritual maturity and service. He pointed in particular to the Eucharistic Youth Movement as a means of nurturing this growth and forming a new generation committed to intercession for the needs of the world. The audience concluded with the Pope encouraging the Network to persevere in its mission of prayerful accompaniment, reinforcing the Church’s commitment to evangelization rooted in spiritual life.
