---
title: Pope Leo Calls for Clear Teaching by Bishops
url: https://www.faithfulnews.com/en/pope-leo-calls-for-clear-teaching-by-bishops
published: 2026-09-23T13:49:17+00:00
language: en
section: World Church
source: https://www.vaticannews.va/sv/paven/news/2026-09/pave-leo-biskopar-ska-erbjuda-en-tydlig-undervisning.html
organizations: Latin America, Caribbean, Saint Turibius of Mogrovejo, Pope Leo XIV, Vatican News
publisher: FaithfulNews
---

# Pope Leo Calls for Clear Teaching by Bishops

Pope Leo XIV issued a pastoral letter on September 19 addressed to bishops of Latin America and the Caribbean, marking the 300th anniversary of the canonization of Saint Turibius of Mogrovejo. The document reflects on the episcopal ministry through images of entering a cathedral, receiving a crucifix and holy water, and the inner life of a shepherd. It emphasizes that pastoral visits must remain vibrant and that bishops should personally engage with their communities, listening to the faithful and reaching those who rarely approach the bishop. The Pope recalls his own experience in Peru, where Saint Turibius, known as the Apostle of the Peoples, traveled to evangelize in local languages and build ties with the people. He urges bishops to return to the school of the Cross, to renew their promise of self‑gift, and to keep their hearts in heaven while their feet walk the path.

The letter highlights the gesture of receiving a crucifix at the cathedral door as a pledge of self‑sacrifice, echoing Turibius’s work of approaching indigenous peoples, correcting injustices, and staying close to the poor. It calls for a continual return to the Cross’s school, warning that comfort, fear, or self‑interest may precede any visible departure from the flock. The Pope then moves to the water of baptism, reminding that those who baptize must themselves be purified, and encourages bishops to make Eucharistic adoration a pastoral priority, giving the faithful space to find support. At the altar, he notes the unifying role of Christ, recalling Saint Turibius’s effort to keep a diverse Peruvian church united, and stresses that unity must be preserved today. The document also discusses the proclamation of the apostolic letter, the papal bull appointing each local shepherd, and the need for bishops to safeguard the good treasure of the Church.

It stresses that in a time of many competing voices, bishops must provide clear, patient teaching rooted in the community, helping the faithful recognize the voice of the Good Shepherd. The Pope urges bishops to be accessible to priests, fostering a paternal relationship that allows priests to approach the bishop not only in crisis but at any time. Finally, he underscores the essential place of prayer before speaking, insisting that no urgent pastoral task should replace the necessary preparation through listening to the Word.

## This story in other languages

- [Français](https://www.faithfulnews.com/fr/le-pape-leon-les-eveques-doivent-offrir-un-enseignement-clair)