Pope Leo XIV: Right to religious freedom is not optional but essential

Pope Leo XIV: Right to Religious Freedom is Essential

Pope Leo XIV received members of Aid to the Church in Need at the Vatican on Friday.

The pontifical foundation supports the Catholic Church in its evangelizing work, particularly in communities that are needy, discriminated against, and persecuted.

The world continues to witness growing hostility and violence against those who hold different beliefs, including many Christians.

The pope emphasized the importance of Aid to the Church in Need's mission, which funds over 5,000 projects in 137 countries, stating that

we do not abandon our persecuted brothers and sisters
as one family in Christ.

Aid to the Church in Need's work is crucial in promoting religious freedom, which the pope deemed

not optional but essential
.

Author's summary: Pope Leo XIV stresses the importance of religious freedom.

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Catholic News Agency Catholic News Agency — 2025-10-15

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