In a message sent for the centenary of the French Movement of Christian Entrepreneurs and Leaders (EDC), gathered in Lyon, France, Pope Leo XIV recalls the special responsibility of Christian entrepreneurs in a world undergoing profound economic and social changes.
By Augustine Asta
Pope Leo XIV has encouraged French entrepreneurs and business leaders to pursue the common good, in a message sent for the centenary of the French Movement of Christian Entrepreneurs and Leaders (EDC), gathered in Lyon, France.
The letter was sent to members of the organization on the Pope’s behalf by Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin.
In the text, the Pope acknowledged “the path traveled” by the movement over the past century and invites its members to renew their commitment to the service of the common good.
“A century of history shows how Christian faith, lived in the world of the economy and business,” he said, “can foster responsibility, creativity, and respect for human dignity,” as he suggested that today’s upheavals make this witness particularly necessary.
Business as a community of people
The Holy Father also highlighted the specific vocation of Christian leaders, who are called to serve society.
“The vocation of the Christian leader,” the Pope said, “should be understood as a service to the common good and the integral development of the person.”
He also stressed that the economy cannot be reduced to purely financial logic. “Economic activity,” he noted, “cannot be limited to the mere management of resources or the simple pursuit of profit.”
“Businesses and the economy, when faithful to their truest vocation, cannot be seen merely as instruments of production or accumulation, but,” he argued, “involve communities of people called to grow together.”
The Pope also emphasized the ecumenical dimension of the movement, noting that the Gospel can serve “as a ferment of unity and reconciliation, even in the economic world.”
Legacy of Rerum Novarum
“It is in this perspective that the teaching of the Encyclical Rerum Novarum is placed, which calls on entrepreneurs to respect the dignity of every worker and to protect the most vulnerable,” the Pope continued, adding, “This call remains relevant today.”
With this sentiment, the Holy Father encouraged evaluating a company’s success not only in economic terms, but also according to “its capacity to promote what is human, to unify society, and to respect Creation.”
Investing in younger generations
The Pope also went on to suggest that the social responsibility of a business is measured not only by “immediate results” but also by its ability to look toward the future and create lasting opportunities.
“Trusting in new generations and offering them opportunities, by creating stable and meaningful employment,” he added, “is not only an economic choice but an act of responsibility and hope, capable of preventing exclusion and marginalization.”
“Christian leaders,” the Pope invited, “are thus called to promote an economy that combines efficiency with humanity, offering young people not only jobs but also paths for growth, training, and responsible participation, capable of generating authentically human development.”
A call to dialogue and collaboration
While renewing his appreciation for the work carried out by the EDC in service of the Church and society, the Pope encouraged them to continue their mission “with courage and determination, feeling yourselves part of the ecclesial community and engaged in the daily building of the Kingdom of God.”
“As the parable of the talents teaches,” Pope Leo XIV reminded, “every gift received is meant to bear fruit for the good of all. Move forward with confidence, aware that your commitment inspires hope and produces lasting fruits for society.”
