Learning to be Quick to Listen

On August 28, 2025, Pope Leo XIV delivered a powerful address in French to a delegation of officials from France's Diocese of Créteil . In his remarks, the Holy Father directly challenged the false notion that faith and public life should be separate. He emphasized that the salvation of Christ encompasses all aspects of human existence, including culture, politics, and the economy. Citing the Church's social doctrine, Pope Leo insisted that charity, a gift from God, can transform structures, legal systems, and social organizations from within. For the pope, a Christian’s faith is not a private matter to be left at home when they enter the public sphere; it must inform every aspect of their being and work. Pope Leo XIV told the politicians that there is no separation in their personality—they are not one person as a politician and another as a Christian. Instead, they must live out their political responsibilities in a Christian manner , guided by their conscience and fa...

St. Vincent de Paul- Des Moines is making a profound difference in the lives of former prisoners through its Immersion Program, offering a holistic approach to reentry that embodies the core tenets of Catholic social teaching. Recognizing that nearly one-third of the individuals they serve have been incarcerated, the program provides crucial wraparound services focused on mental well-being, socio-economic stability, employability, and healthy relationships. Through initiatives like "Back2Work," participants receive tailored training, financial literacy education, and job placement assistance, fostering not just employment but a renewed sense of purpose and belonging. This proactive engagement, including pre-release access to individuals in the Polk County Jail, builds vital trust and facilitates a smoother transition back into the community, addressing systemic barriers to reintegration. This impactful work directly mirrors the profound call to action found in Jesus' ...