On Oct. 6, Pope Leo XIV received the Knights of Columbus Board of Directors in audience and expressed gratitude for their generosity toward projects at the Vatican and in pro-life initiatives in their local communities.
The board members and their families were in Rome for a Jubilee Year of Hope pilgrimage, which is a spiritually rich journey that tens of millions of other Catholics have also undertaken this year, Pope Leo noted. He said that when they go through the Holy Door and into St. Peter’s Basilica, pilgrims encounter the beautiful baldacchino, created by Gian Lorenzo Bernini, and Bernini’s monument enshrining the chair of Saint Peter. Pope Leo thanked the Knights for their support of the projects to restore both works of art, which would not have been possible without their generosity.
“These masterpieces help all who look upon them to contemplate two of the principal tenets of our faith: the real presence of Jesus in the Eucharist and the Pope as the Successor of Peter who unites and guides the Church,” he said.
For many years, the Knights have also supported other initiatives of the Pope, such as a fund that supports the poor and vulnerable across the world, Pope Leo added.
“Through a variety of initiatives undertaken by local Councils, you and your brother Knights also seek to bring the compassion and love of the Lord into your local communities, including through your efforts to uphold the sanctity of human life in all of its stages, to assist victims of war and natural disasters and also to support priestly vocations,” he said. “For these concrete actions, as well as for your daily prayers and sacrifices for the good of all God’s people, I express sincerely my warm appreciation.”
Pope Leo wished them a fruitful pilgrimage and entrusted the participants to the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary and Blessed Michael McGivney, founder of the Knights.
In August, Pope Leo sent a video message to the Knights of Columbus who were gathering in Washington, D.C., for their 143rd Supreme Convention. He praised their pro-life efforts in that address, as well.
“I commend your efforts to bring together men in your communities for prayer, formation, and fraternity, as well as the many charitable efforts of your local Councils throughout the world,” he said. “In particular, your generous service to vulnerable populations, including the unborn, pregnant mothers, children, those who are less fortunate, and those affected by the scourge of war, brings hope and healing to many and continues the noble legacy of your founder.”
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