Pope Leo XIV brought his message of unity and dialogue to the Roman Curia on Saturday, marking his first audience with members of the Catholic Church’s central administration since his election.
In a notable shift from the often tense relationship his predecessor, the late Pope Francis, had with the Curia, Pope Leo—who is the first American to hold the office—used the meeting to express gratitude. “Popes come and go, the Curia remains,” he said to officials, staff, and their families gathered in the Vatican’s Paul VI Hall.
He echoed the words he first spoke from St Peter’s Basilica on May 8, urging the Church to “build bridges” and to welcome “with open arms, everyone who needs our charity, our presence, dialogue, and love.”
“If we want to contribute to unity and love, we must start with our everyday behaviour—especially in the workplace,” he added. “Let’s overcome misunderstandings with patience and humility, avoid prejudice, and follow the example of Pope Francis—even with a little humour.”
Under Pope Francis, the Roman Curia underwent major reforms aimed at decentralising authority, increasing transparency, and giving greater roles to lay people and women. However, his sharp critiques—once accusing officials of having “spiritual Alzheimer’s”—and his top-down leadership style left a lasting impact and drew some resistance.
In 2024, frustrations over working conditions led to a rare strike by around 50 Vatican Museums employees—an unprecedented event in a state that does not officially recognise trade unions.
Before becoming pope, Leo XIV served for two years as head of the Vatican office responsible for the appointment of bishops and had previously spent two decades serving in Peru.
