Skip to content

Encyclical Dilexit Nos: The Heart of Compassion

In the final days of the Synod on Synodality, Pope Francis introduced his latest encyclical, Dilexit Nos ("He Loved Us"), a document centered on the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the transformative power of God’s love.

In the final days of the Synod on Synodality, Pope Francis introduced his latest encyclical, Dilexit Nos (“He Loved Us”), a document centered on the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the transformative power of God’s love.

Presenting the encyclical at the press conference were Sister Antonella Fraccaro, Superior General of the Disciples of the Gospel, and theologian Archbishop Bruno Forte. 

The Central Message of Dilexit Nos 

Archbishop Bruno Forte highlighted the significance of the encyclical, calling it a key to understanding Pope Francis’ entire pontificate. He explained, “The central idea of this encyclical is that the love of God revealed in Jesus Christ is not just an intimate, personal experience but the deep source that drives us to love others, change society, and build peace through dialogue and respect for others.” 

A Call for Compassionate Leadership in the Church 

The release of Dilexit Nos coincides with the close of the Synod on Synodality and extends a clear challenge to Church leaders to embrace compassionate, empathetic leadership. Archbishop Forte emphasized Pope Francis’ vision of a Church governance rooted in genuine synodality: “The encyclical speaks directly to the Synod Fathers, inviting them to ground the Church’s mission in the agape of Christ. The Pope makes it clear that only through love can we joyfully and effectively proclaim God’s love,” the Archbishop continued. 

Embracing the Sacred Heart: Personal Renewal for Today’s World 

Sister Antonella Fraccaro spoke to the personal transformation that Dilexit Nos encourages. “As the Pope says, ‘I am my heart.’ Referring to the Heart of Jesus means nourishing our own hearts,” she noted, “bringing quality to our lives through the goodness and love of Jesus.” 

The release of the encyclical also marks the 350th anniversary of the first apparition of the Sacred Heart to St. Margaret Mary Alacoque. Pope Francis reminds us that devotion to the Sacred Heart has historically brought renewal to the Church in challenging times and continues to be a source of hope and resilience today. 

Bénédicte Cedergren contributed to this Vaticano segment. 

Adapted by Jacob Stein 

SIGN UP FOR OUR WEEKLY NEWSLETTER HERE

Receive the most important news from EWTN Vatican via WhatsApp. It has become increasingly difficult to see Catholic news on social media. Subscribe to our free channel today

Share

Would you like to receive the latest updates on the Pope and the Vatican

Receive articles and updates from our EWTN Newsletter.

More news related to this article

Synod on Synodality 2024 Explainer

Pope Francis highlights the Synod on Synodality as a spiritual journey guided by the Holy Spirit, emphasizing inclusion and reflection over political agendas to deepen the Church's understanding of synodality.

Pope Francis: In the Eucharist, Jesus offers himself for the world

In the Eucharist, Jesus offers himself for the life of the world, Pope Francis proclaimed from the window of the Apostolic Palace on the Solemnity of Corpus Christi.

Pope Appoints Woman as Secretary of Dicastery Overseeing Religious Worldwide

Pope Francis Appoints Sister Simona Brambilla as Secretary of Vatican Dicastery for Religious Governance.

Global Summit On Children’s Rights At The Vatican

World leaders met at the Vatican for the Children’s Rights Summit. Before it opened, Pope Francis embraced Roman, a Ukrainian child with burns, a moment symbolizing the event.

Pope Francis: Self-sacrifice, humble service are key to good leadership

During his Angelus address Sunday, Pope Francis asked his listeners to consider the qualities necessary for good leadership.

A Behind-the-Scenes Look at the EWTN Vatican Office

Three days in Hungary, with various meetings planned. Among the topics to be discussed is the future of Europe, as well as migration, ecology, and the family.

LIVE
FROM THE VATICAN

Be present live on EWTN.it