Pope: Pontifical diplomacy at the service of peace, truth and justice

Vatican, April 28, 2026: On Monday, 27 April, Pope Leo visited the Pontifical Academy in Rome, underlining “the special vocation at the service of peace, truth and justice” to which the pontifical diplomatic priest is called. The meeting marked the 325th anniversary of the institution’s foundation, which the Pope had also visited prior to his election to the Chair of Peter, when he served as Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops.

Unity in Christ

Pope Leo conveyed “profound gratitude” for the “history of dedication and service” commemorated during this joyful anniversary. He described it as a significant history, made possible by priests from around the world who have contributed “with their humble efforts to building that unity in Christ which, amid the diversity of origins, makes communion a defining characteristic of the Diplomatic Corps of the Holy See.”

An exercise in conversion

Pope Leo spoke about the reforms that have granted the institution “the autonomy needed to renew the structure of studies in law, history, political science and economics, alongside the study of languages used in international relations.” However, he stressed that an even more important reform is that of a constant exercise of conversion, aimed at nurturing “closeness, attentive listening, witness, a fraternal approach and dialogue […] combined with humility and gentleness”, virtues that must permeate the entirety of priestly ministry.

Bridges that shape history

Recalling saints, blesseds and Popes who have influenced the Academy’s history, the Pope emphasised the unique role of the pontifical diplomatic priest: “a messenger of the Easter proclamation: ‘Peace be with you!’”. He noted that even when hopes for dialogue and reconciliation appear to diminish, it remains essential to bring to all the words of the Risen Christ: “I leave you peace, I give you my peace.”

"Your mission calls you to be “bridges” and “channels”, so that the grace that comes from heaven may find its way into the folds of history", he said.

A sign of Christ’s love

The Pope further explained that the role of the pontifical diplomat includes bringing the Truth—who is Christ—into the assembly of nations, “becoming a sign of His love for that portion of humanity entrusted to his care — first as a pastor, and only then as a diplomat.” Pope Leo reiterated, as he had in his address to the Diplomatic Corps accredited to the Holy See at the beginning of the year, that words carry weight and must once again “express realities clearly and unambiguously,” so as to promote “authentic dialogue without misunderstanding”, bearing witness to what has become flesh.

Promoters of justice

The Pope then broadened his perspective to include the entire human family, noting that the diplomat’s ministry extends beyond the Catholic community.

"This calls you to be promoters of every form of justice that helps to recognise, restore and protect the image of God imprinted in every person", he said.

Guardians of human dignity

“In a world marked by tension,” the Pope continued, “which seems to make conflict the only way of addressing needs and demands, our efforts to commit ourselves to dialogue, listening and reconciliation may appear insufficient, at times even futile.”

A visit of encouragement

In his greeting, Archbishop Salvatore Pennacchio, President of the Pontifical Ecclesiastical Academy, highlighted that the Pope’s visit serves as “a source of encouragement along the path of preparation for service in the diplomacy of the Holy See.” He also conveyed his best wishes to Cardinal Pietro Parolin on the 46th anniversary of his priestly ordination, which took place on 27 April 1980.

Courtesy: Vatican News