Audience of the Order of Regular Clerics Theatines with Pope Francis
On September 14, the Order of Regular Clerics Theatines had the honor of meeting with Pope Francis in St. Peter’s Basilica, on the occasion of the 500th Anniversary of the foundation of the Theatine Order. This significant date marks five centuries of dedication to the service of God and the reform of the Church, following the example of St. Cajetan of Thiene and his early companions.
Pope Francis warmly welcomed those present, beginning his speech with a reflection on the history of the Order. He recalled how, in 1524, the Theatines made their solemn profession in a space that was still under construction, a symbol of the ongoing renewal that must accompany religious life. Through his message, the Holy Father highlighted three fundamental pillars: renewal, communion, and service.
Renewal
The Pope emphasized the importance of renewal, noting that fidelity to the mission must be a continuous process. The image of the Basilica under construction in the 16th century serves as a metaphor for the need to reform and adapt religious life to current times. “There can be no fidelity that does not renew itself,” he stated, urging the Theatines to be courageous in demolishing what is no longer necessary to build a better future.
Communion
The second point he addressed was communion. Francis recalled that the greatness of St. Peter’s Basilica was made possible by the collective effort of many, and that true community is built by valuing everyone’s contribution. “A welcoming house is not built alone, but together,” he said, inviting the Theatines to strengthen unity and collaboration in their mission.
Service
Finally, the Pope spoke about the importance of service. He highlighted that good intentions must materialize in concrete actions toward others, following the example of St. Cajetan and, above all, that of Jesus, who came to serve. “The most beautiful projects would have come to nothing if we do not put ourselves in service to others,” he concluded.
The Holy Father invited the entire Theatine Family to joyfully embrace this Jubilee, committed to renewal, communion, and service, in a journey that focuses not only on the physical structure of the Church but on the reality of the “living stones” that comprise it.
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To read and download the full words of the Holy Father, click on the following links:
Cover photo: Pablo Esparza (link)