Pope Leo XIV calls Church to interpret signs of the times

Pope Leo XIV told the Church during a general audience on September 2, 2026, that Christians must not be disinterested spectators to the upheavals of their era. Speaking at St. Peter's Square, the Pope urged the Church to examine the signs of the times and move closer to humanity.

The Pope began a new teaching cycle on the Second Vatican Council's pastoral constitution, Gaudium et Spes. He stated that the Church has a permanent duty to interpret current events through the lens of the Gospel.

Pope Leo XIV called for an end to passivity and indifference toward world events. He specifically noted that the Church should involve itself in the suffering of those facing violence, discrimination, and injustice.