Pope Leo XIV Honors Mother Cabrini’s Service to Migrants

Pope Leo XIV paid tribute to Mother Cabrini, the first American saint, highlighting her as an example for Christians to aid migrants. During a visit to her birthplace in Sant’Angelo Lodigiano, near Milan, Leo urged especially young people to learn about her dedicated life. His visit is part of a summer tour across Italy.

Mother Cabrini, known for assisting Italian immigrants in the U.S., extended her work globally, establishing schools, hospitals, and orphanages. A naturalized U.S. citizen, she was beatified and canonized after her death in 1917.

Leo’s Appeal to Young People and Migrant Care

Pope Leo XIV emphasized Cabrini’s faith-driven commitment to migrants seeking better lives. He asked, “What would her spirit of mission tell her today?” Leo encouraged young people to explore Cabrini’s writings and travel journals.

Leo’s Stance on U.S. Migration Policy

Leo has publicly opposed the Trump administration’s migrant policies. His July 4 visit to Lampedusa, an island symbolizing migration issues, aligns with the priorities he shares with Pope Francis. Polls reveal Leo remains popular among Americans, but partisan divides affect views of him.

A PRRI survey found 56% of Americans view Leo favorably, compared to 34% for Trump. A Pew survey indicates 78% of Catholics view Leo favorably, but Republican Catholics show a decline.

Migrant Care in Leo’s Pontificate

Committed to the Church’s call to “welcome the stranger,” Leo visited Spain’s Canary Islands to advocate for migrant integration. His upcoming visit to Lampedusa underscores his dedication.

Pilgrimage to St. Augustine’s Tomb

Before visiting Cabrini’s village, Leo stopped in Pavia at St. Augustine’s tomb. He encouraged Italians to reconnect with their faith amid a decline in church attendance. Leo draws inspiration from Augustine’s spiritual legacy and philosophical works like “Confessions” and “The City of God.”

Identifying as a “son of St. Augustine,” Leo frequently references Augustine, indicating his influence on his leadership.

This article includes information from the Associated Press.