Cardinal Tobin: The call to conversion

Pope Leo XIV spoke about the necessity of conversion for Christian discipleship during a pilgrimage to Lourdes, France. In a homily delivered on September 27, 2026, at the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes, the Pope described conversion as a change of direction away from sin, disordered desires, and self-centeredness toward God.

The Pope stated that God expects people to turn to him, ask for forgiveness, and perform penance with a firm intention to avoid sin in the future. He noted that sin separates people from God and harms the ability to love, making healing and reconciliation necessary for everyone. According to the Pope, Christ remains faithful and merciful despite human unworthiness.