Pope Leo issues Apostolic Letter on priestly formation, fraternity, and synodality

Almudena Martínez-Bordiú, ACI Prensa/CNA

Wednesday, December 24, 2025

Leo XIV calls for renewed priestly formation, stronger priestly fraternity, and a more missionary focus in pastoral ministry in an apostolic letter released by the Vatican on Monday. The pope writes that the Second Vatican Council’s “desired renewal” remains closely tied to priestly ministry. Leo also noted that synodality is “particularly close to my heart,” arguing that the Church still has work to do in fostering healthy relationships between priests and bishops, among priests themselves, and with the lay faithful.