Pope Leo XIV's Apostolic Exhortation "Dilexi Te": A Call to Serve the Poor

October 9, 2025: Today, Pope Leo XIV released his first Apostolic Exhortation, "Dilexi Te" (Latin for "I have loved you"), emphasizing the importance of serving the poor and vulnerable. The document highlights the need for the Church to make a preferential option for the poor, which is not about exclusivity or discrimination but about recognizing the special place they hold in God's heart.

Key Takeaways from "Dilexi Te"

- The Poor are Part of Our Family: Pope Leo XIV stresses that no Christian can view the poor as merely a societal problem. Instead, they are part of our "family" and "one of us". This perspective emphasizes the need for empathy, compassion, and action.

- Teachers of the Gospel: The Apostolic Exhortation reminds us that the poor are not just recipients of aid but also teachers of the Gospel. By encountering them, we encounter God himself.

- A Call to Decisive Action: The Pope calls on the Church to make a decisive and radical choice in favour of the weakest members of society. This involves recognizing the inherent dignity and worth of every human person, particularly those who are discriminated against and oppressed.

Implications for the Church and Society

- Renewal through Service: Pope Leo XIV believes that the preferential choice for the poor is a source of extraordinary renewal for both the Church and society. By serving the poor, we can rediscover the true meaning of love, compassion, and solidarity.

- Encountering God in the Poor: The document highlights the importance of encountering God in the poor and vulnerable. This encounter challenges us to reexamine our priorities, values, and actions.

Conclusion

In "Dilexi Te," Pope Leo XIV issues a powerful call to action, inviting the Church and all people of goodwill to serve the poor and vulnerable. By embracing this call, we can build a more just and compassionate society, where every person is treated with dignity and respect. As we reflect on this Apostolic Exhortation, may we be inspired to serve the poor with renewed faith, hope, and love.

By Fr Suresh Mathew