Pope Leo XIV in Pavia: “The City is Both a Gift and a Task”

Pavia, June 21, 2026: Pope Leo XIV, during his pastoral visit to Pavia on Saturday, urged citizens to take greater responsibility for the common good, describing the city as “both a gift and a task.”

Addressing civic and religious authorities, along with the faithful gathered in one of the city’s main squares, the Pope reflected on the beauty and heritage of Pavia. He noted that its monuments, schools, university, hospital and parish centres reflect a shared commitment to human dignity, education, culture and solidarity.

Speaking about the deeper meaning of a city, Pope Leo recalled the Latin word civitas, explaining that it refers not only to a physical space but also to a human community. He emphasised that society grows when citizens work together for the common good rather than focusing only on individual interests.

“Citizens are always fellow citizens,” the Pope said, highlighting the importance of shared responsibility in public life. He warned against indifference and civic disengagement, calling instead for active participation and a renewed spirit of service that transforms public spaces into places of encounter and dialogue.

Encouraging residents to contribute personally to society, Pope Leo invited them to say, “I care about our city.” He also praised the fertile lands surrounding Pavia and acknowledged generations of workers who have cared for creation through their labour.

Referring to Pavia’s academic tradition, the Pope said centres of learning must go beyond the accumulation of knowledge and focus on the integral development of the human person. He explained that every field of study represents a form of care, from medicine serving the human body to law supporting society and philosophy nurturing human thought.

Pope Leo also highlighted the example of Saint Augustine, describing his search for truth as a “healthy restlessness” that continues to inspire those seeking knowledge and meaning. He stressed the close relationship between faith and reason, stating, “One cannot believe without thinking, nor can the highest questions of reason be illuminated without faith.”

Speaking about the local Church, the Pope described it as a welcoming home called to be “a hearth of faith and a home of charity,” especially for the poor, elderly and lonely. He also expressed gratitude to volunteers serving the community.

Concluding his address, Pope Leo reflected on the cross in Pavia’s civic coat of arms, saying it represents the universal value of Christian love and a history that continues to be written through cooperation between citizens, institutions, the Church and future generations.

Courtesy : Vatican News