Pope Leo XIV presides at Mass on the feast of St. Michael the Archangel, the patron saint of the Vatican Gendarmerie Corps, and invites members of the police force to live their mission as “witnesses of peace”.
By Linda Bordoni
Pope Leo XIV on Sunday celebrated Mass in front of the Vatican Lourdes Grotto with members of the Vatican Gendarmerie on the feast of their patron saint, St Michael the Archangel. In his homily, the Pope thanked them for their daily service and urged them to live their mission as “witnesses of peace” in the heart of the universal Church.
In his homily at Mass on Sunday evening in the presence of the men and women of the Vatican Gendarmerie Corps gathered with the Pope for the traditional annual celebration, the Holy Father reflected on the words of St. Paul to Timothy: Do not be ashamed of testifying to our Lord, reminding those present that their work is not simply a profession, but a vocation of service to the Church.
“Your presence, often discreet and reassuring, expresses a Gospel style not through words but through attentive gazes and thoughtful gestures that safeguard every person around you,” he said.
The Pope called on the gendarmes to draw strength from their Christian virtues — “not to dominate, but to serve; not to please authorities, but to show charity; not out of fear, but with prudence and responsibility.”
He addressed particular words of encouragement to new recruits who recently took their oath of service, reminding them that their promise was “not a simple formula to repeat, but an act of freedom and dedication” made publicly before God and the Church.
Pope Leo XIV cekebrates Mass for the Vatican Gerndarmes (@VATICAN MEDIA)
A mission that reflects the Church’s own
The Pope acknowledged that the gendarmes’ work often takes place “behind the scenes,” but noted that their contribution to the life of the Vatican is essential.
“It is little seen, yet it accomplishes much. It builds security, order, and respect,” he said. “It is a service that protects not only places and people but also reflects a mission — that of the Church.”
Witnesses of peace
Looking beyond the borders of Vatican City State, Pope Leo XIV highlighted the broader spiritual horizon of their vocation.
“With humble and faithful hearts, you will be able to be witnesses of peace in this very small State, whose horizon is the entire world,” he said.
He encouraged them to live their mission not only through their uniform but above all through their humanity, drawing strength from faith and the grace of the Holy Spirit.
The Pope also extended his gratitude to the families of the gendarmes, acknowledging the “silent yes” that sustains their daily service.
Entrusting to the protection of Mary and St Michael
Concluding his homily, Pope Leo XIV entrusted the Gendarmerie Corps and their loved ones to the intercession of the Virgin Mary and St Michael the Archangel, praying that they may continue their mission with courage, faith, and dedication.
“May the Virgin Mary be for you a model of faith and dedication, and may Saint Michael, the Archangel who fights evil in the name of God, always protect you and your families,” he said.
Pope Leo XIV cekebrates Mass for the Vatican Gerndarmes (@VATICAN MEDIA)
