Pope Leo XIV Reinforces Synodal Vision During Ad Limina Visit with Bishops from Slovenia


Pope Leo XIV Resumes "Ad Limina" Visits with Slovenian Bishops

VATICAN CITY — Pope Leo XIV officially resumed the tradition of ad limina visits this morning, welcoming the Slovenian Episcopal Conference to the Vatican Apostolic Palace. The meeting marks a significant return to diplomatic routine following the transition of the papacy and the passing of Pope Francis.

The week-long visit, which concluded today, January 16, served as a period of intense prayer, reflection, and dialogue between the Slovenian prelates and the Roman Curia.


A Fraternal Reception

Monsignor Andrej Saje, President of the Slovenian Episcopal Conference, described the audience as a deeply "beautiful experience." Having previously known the Pope during his tenure at the Dicastery for Bishops, Saje noted that the Holy Father received the delegation with warmth and attentiveness.

During the meeting, the bishops briefed the Pope on the specific realities of the Slovenian Church, including:

  • Pastoral Challenges: Issues shared with many European nations.

  • Historical Legacy: The ongoing impact of the country's post-communist transition.

  • Spiritual Greetings: Delivering the prayers and well-wishes of the Slovenian faithful.

A Call to Synodality and Unity

Pope Leo XIV used the occasion to reinforce his vision for the Church's future, centering on communion and synodality. He urged the bishops to foster deeper relationships across all levels of the Church, including:

  • Bishops and priests

  • Religious orders

  • Families and laypeople

"Be friends, be brothers," the Pope told the delegation. "Because you are successors of the apostles."

The Holy Father emphasized that the synodal process is rooted in listening to the Spirit to better navigate modern anxieties and fulfill the mission of evangelization.

A Week of Pilgrimage

Beyond their meeting with the Pope, the Slovenian bishops conducted nearly twenty meetings with various Vatican Dicasteries. They also paid homage at the tombs of Saints Peter and Paul, grounding their administrative visit in a spiritual pilgrimage of faith.

Source: https://www.vaticannews.va/it/papa/news/2026-01/papa-leone-xiv-visita-ad-limina-conferenza-episcopale-slovenia.html

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