In a moving Sunday celebration at a church rich in personal and spiritual history, Pope Leo XIV called for deeper compassion toward those suffering poverty, violence, and injustice.

Pope Leo XIV, the first pontiff from the Augustinian order, celebrated Mass at St. Thomas of Villanova Church in Castel Gandolfo, connecting deeply with the 16th-century saint whose legacy shapes his theology and values, ABC7 New York reported.

The Mass took place in Castel Gandolfo, a town nestled south of Rome that is home to the papal summer estate. Though on vacation, Pope Leo has resumed the traditional summer residency there, a practice that had lapsed in recent years. He arrived in the town the week prior and is expected to spend two weeks at the estate before briefly returning to the Vatican.

A Moment of Reflection with Historic Resonance

The liturgy was held at St. Thomas of Villanova Church, named after the 16th-century Augustinian friar known for his selfless giving and care for the poor. Born in Spain, St. Thomas was a teacher and a leader in the Augustinian religious community. His humility and dedication to the poor have earned him a lasting spiritual legacy.

For Pope Leo, whose own theological formation and pastoral vision are closely tied to the Augustinian tradition, the moment carried personal significance. He studied at Villanova University near Philadelphia, a Catholic institution named after the same saint. His decision to celebrate Mass there symbolizes a return to his spiritual roots.

“St. Thomas of Villanova was an Augustinian saint,” said Rev. Tadeusz Rozmus, the priest of the parish. “And so with him (Leo) returns to the beginning of his history, of his spirituality.”

Spiritual Teachings Blended with Social Call

In his homily, Pope Leo drew on the parable of the Good Samaritan to emphasize the moral urgency of compassion and solidarity. He urged the faithful to examine how they look upon others, saying that this alone reveals what resides in the human heart.

“How we look at others is what counts,” he said. “We can look and walk by, or we can look and be moved with compassion.” He referenced the Gospel story to underscore this choice, comparing it to present-day encounters with the marginalized and oppressed.

The pope then expanded his message, calling upon the Church and individuals alike to show mercy toward victims of harsh political regimes, economic hardship, and ongoing conflict. He painted a poignant picture of the people left behind by modern systems and disasters, describing them as “stripped, robbed and pillaged.”

Augustinian Values Shape Pope’s Vision

Since ascending to the papacy, Pope Leo XIV has leaned heavily on the writings and teachings of St. Augustine of Hippo, the 4th-century philosopher and theologian whose ideas remain at the core of the Augustinian rule of life. This recurring influence was again on display during Sunday’s Mass.

The celebration offered more than just a personal meditation for the pope – it presented a pastoral vision shaped by a tradition that prioritizes both interior conversion and outward service. By invoking St. Thomas and Augustine, Leo connected the ancient roots of the Church with contemporary calls to justice.

Rev. Rozmus noted that the pope’s return to Castel Gandolfo, and particularly to a church so central to his spiritual identity, resonated strongly with local faithful. The visit rekindled joy and meaning for the small town, which has long held close ties to the Vatican through the papal estate.

Multiple Engagements Despite Vacation Schedule

Despite officially being on vacation, Pope Leo has maintained an active schedule with pastoral and diplomatic duties. Shortly after arriving in Castel Gandolfo, he welcomed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for a private meeting addressing the ongoing war in Ukraine.

He also met with a group of religious superiors and presided over another special Mass focusing on the Pope’s environmental concerns and care for creation. These commitments reflect his continued emphasis on outreach and stewardship, even during rest periods.

The Vatican confirmed that Pope Leo will return to Rome at the end of July to fulfill scheduled obligations. However, he is expected to return to Castel Gandolfo for another stay in August before the conclusion of the summer season.

Faith and Place Intertwine in Pontiff’s Journey

The convergence of theology, biography, and geography gave the Sunday Mass a rare depth of meaning. It blended the serene rhythm of a village church service with the broader call for global solidarity that has marked Pope Leo’s tenure so far.

His choice of Castel Gandolfo – and especially of St. Thomas of Villanova Church – not only ties him to his Augustinian heritage but also highlights the enduring legacy of saints whose lives combined prayer with radical acts of justice.

With his words and presence, Pope Leo XIV offered a reminder that the power of the Church’s tradition lies not only in its continuity but in its capacity for compassion in every age.