Vatican City (Vatican), Dec. 6 (LaPresse) – “In a time marked by differing sensibilities, where it is easy to fall into dichotomies or fruitless debates, the Blesseds of Chimbote remind us that the Lord is capable of uniting what our human logic tends to separate. It is not full agreement of opinions that unites us, but the decision to align our views with those of Christ,” said Pope Leo XIV in a message sent on the tenth anniversary of the Beatification of the Martyrs of Chimbote (Peru).
“I would like to conclude with a word for the youth of Peru, Poland, Italy, and the entire world,” the Pope continued. “The witness of the Chimbote martyrs shows that life bears fruit to the extent that it opens itself to God’s call. Michal was only thirty, and Zbigniew thirty-three; they had exercised ministry for only a few years, yet in that youth—sometimes considered inexperienced or fragile—God once again reminded His Church that the fruitfulness of the mission does not depend on the length of the journey, but on the faithfulness with which it is undertaken. From this certainty also comes my invitation: young people, do not fear the Lord’s call! Whether to the priesthood, consecrated life, or even to the mission ad gentes, to go where Christ is not yet known. I also invite the clergy—especially young priests—to generously consider offering themselves as fidei donum, following the example of Blessed Alessandro; and I encourage bishops to support the zeal of young priests and assist the most needy Churches through the fraternal sending of ministers to extend Christ’s pastoral charity where it is most needed.”