Pope Leo XIV honored St. Frances Xavier Cabrini during a visit on Saturday, highlighting her dedication to serving immigrants as a guide for Catholics amid the ongoing migration challenges.
Migration has become a central focus of Leo’s papacy, leading to public friction with President Donald Trump regarding immigration and foreign policy matters. Leo emphasized Cabrini’s commitment to helping migrants during a prayer service in Sant’Angelo Lodigiano, Cabrini’s birthplace.
“What could be more relevant today than a missionary charism dedicated to serving migrants?”
Leo’s visit to Cabrini’s tomb urged young Catholics to embrace the values of service to immigrants seeking better lives. As the first American saint and Patroness of Migrants, Cabrini’s legacy inspires Leo’s efforts within the Catholic community.
Leo reflected on the guidance that Cabrini might provide today in addressing migrant issues, invoking former Pope Francis, known for advocating migrant support due to his Italian immigrant roots. Leo’s remarks continue his series of migration-focused appearances during his papacy.
Recently, Pope Leo traveled to Spain’s Canary Islands, a significant destination for migrants from West Africa. During his visit, he called for better integration of migrants and stressed the importance of safe and legal migration pathways, urging world leaders to take action.
Leo’s stance on migration has faced criticism from Trump, who accuses Leo of political interference, distancing from immigration policies. Leo defends himself, stating his focus on human dignity and peace aligns with Catholic teachings.
The ongoing tensions between the Vatican and Washington include reports of Secretary of State Marco Rubio planning discussions with Vatican officials about the papacy and immigration disputes.
Pope Leo’s Saturday visit aimed at empowering Catholics inspired by Cabrini’s legacy, a naturalized U.S. citizen who served Italian immigrants. Cabrini’s work through schools, hospitals, and orphanages continues to hold significance today.
Looking ahead, the Vatican announced Leo’s plans to visit Lampedusa on July 4. Lampedusa, a key European migration point, marks a symbolic visit for Leo due to the significance tied to Pope Francis’ initial trip outside Rome post-election.