Pope highlights Finland as model of hope-filled ecumenical cooperation

Vatican City, January 19, 2026— Pope Leo XIV has praised Finland as an example of practical and hope-centred ecumenical cooperation, as he met a Finnish ecumenical delegation at the Vatican on Monday, the Feast of Saint Henrik.

The meeting took place on the second day of the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity. Welcoming Lutheran, Orthodox and Catholic representatives, the Pope thanked Archbishop Tapio Luoma for recalling the 750th anniversary of the Archdiocese of Turku.

Reflecting on this year’s theme for the Week of Prayer — “There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to the one hope of your calling” — Pope Leo underlined that Christian hope is firmly rooted in the shared faith of all believers. He described Baptism as “the very root of all Christian fraternity”, grounding unity in “the one Baptism for the forgiveness of sins”.

The Pope acknowledged that many people today are tempted by hopelessness, but stressed that Christians have a clear mission. As “messengers of hope”, he said, they are called to bring the Lord’s light into the darkest corners of the world. While the Jubilee of Hope has ended, he reminded those present that Christian hope “knows no end and no limit”.

Pope Leo urged Christians to witness to this hope not only through words, but also through charitable action, strengthened by Christ, whom he described as “the very incarnation of hope for all”.

Turning specifically to Finland, the Pope expressed appreciation for what he called concrete and long-standing signs of ecumenical cooperation. He noted the country’s reputation as “a model country for ecumenism”, pointing to joint Orthodox, Lutheran and Catholic initiatives that promote a culture of hope, dignity and compassion.

He also welcomed the shared commitment of the Churches to the continued development of palliative and end-of-life care.

Referring to the Nordic Catholic Bishops’ Conference’s reception of Communion in Growth, Pope Leo described the document as “a valuable milestone on the ecumenical journey”. Together with the tradition of jointly celebrating Saint Henrik’s Day, he said, such efforts stand as “eloquent signs of a practical and fruitful ecumenism”.

In conclusion, the Pope encouraged the delegation as the International Catholic–Lutheran Dialogue prepares to enter its next phase. Entrusting those present to the intercession of Saints Peter and Paul and Saint Henrik, he invited everyone to pray the Our Father together, calling it a visible sign of shared faith and communion.

Pope highlights Finland as model of hope-filled ecumenical cooperation

Latest News