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If the Lord does not watch over the city, in vain does the watchman keep vigil.Ps 127:1

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Pope Leo XIV Urges Vatican Police to Guard Their Hearts As They Protect Others

Catholic IntelligenceUpdated 1 min read

Pope Leo XIV told members of the Vatican Gendarmerie to nurture their faith and protect their hearts while serving others. During a Mass celebrated Oct. 3 at the Lourdes Grotto in the Vatican Gardens, the pope honored the force's patron, St. Michael the Archangel.

The pope described the work of the gendarmes as laboring in the Lord's vineyard, noting that their duties involve caring for people rather than just guarding buildings, grounds, and entrances. He told the officers that they should view others as people to be respected and protected rather than problems to be solved.

Reflecting on the Gospel, Leo XIV said that authority should be expressed through the ability to listen, protect, and accompany others with respect and firmness. He urged the officers to place Jesus at the center of their lives, stating that they are men called to follow him before they are gendarmes. He added that following Christ helps officers find strength that becomes gentleness and authority that walks alongside humility.

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