By Kielce Gussie
Speaking to a group of Spanish pilgrims from the Parish of Santo Tomás de Villanueva (St Thomas of Villanova), Pope Leo XIV expressed his joy at meeting them during the Octave of Christmas.
The pilgrims travelled around 1,900km (about 1,180 miles) from the city of Alcalá de Henares, Spain, on pilgrimage to Rome, and the Pope shared his gratitude for their support of “the Successor of Peter with your prayers and generosity.”
Reflecting on the namesake of their parish, Pope Leo explained that St. Thomas of Villanova “was open to God’s action in his life,” saying this made it possible for him “to do much good for the Church and for the society of his time.”
He highlighted how the city of Alcalá de Henares works to preserve the life and legacy of the Spanish Augustinian saint. The Pope then touched on some of the distinctive characteristics of St Thomas.
A legacy that lives on
The saint’s life and writings showcase “an unceasing pursuit of continual prayer—that is, a holy restlessness to remain in God’s presence at every moment.” This, Pope Leo pointed out, revealed St. Thomas’ profound interior life, which enabled him to hear God’s word.
Moreover, the Augustinian bishop was renowned for his tireless work, which the Pope explained is an aspect that “challenges us in a world that seems to offer everything more and more quickly and easily.”
St Thomas’ selfless labor, simplicity, sobriety, and apostolic zeal can help everyone recognize the gifts and talents they have received from God and remind them of the call to use these gifts to serve the community.
Finally, Pope Leo reflected on how the Spanish saint’s love for the poor earned him the title “the almoner of God.” This characteristic, the Pope explained, is very present in the parish life of the pilgrims from Alcalá de Henares through their works and gestures—for which he expressed his gratitude.
Closing the private audience, Pope Leo encouraged the pilgrim group on their journey, following in the footsteps of Christ, and urged them to use the example of the saints to inspire them. He invoked a blessing on them: “May God bless you, and may Our Lady of the Val always accompany you.” – Vatican News
