✨ Dilexi Te – “I Have Loved You”

Apostolic Exhortation of Pope Leo XIV (2025)
Theme: Love for the Poor

🧡 What Is This Document?

Dilexi Te is a heartfelt message from Pope Leo XIV to all Christians. It’s not a law or a rulebook—it’s a spiritual encouragement. The Pope is saying: if we truly love God, we must show that love by caring for the poor.

📖 Why Was It Written?

Pope Leo wrote this shortly after becoming pope, to set the tone for his leadership. He chose the feast of St. John Henry Newman to release it, and signed it on October 4, the feast of St. Francis of Assisi, who is known for his love of the poor.

🔑 Main Messages

1. Love Must Be Practical

• Faith isn’t just about prayer or going to church—it must lead to action.
• We must help those who are hungry, sick, homeless, or forgotten.

2. See Christ in the Poor

• When we serve the poor, we are serving Jesus himself.
• The Pope reminds us that Jesus lived among the poor and calls us to do the same.

3. The Church Must Be a Voice for the Voiceless

• Pope Leo speaks against:
  • Slavery and violence against women
  • Injustice in education and healthcare
  • Mistreatment of migrants and refugees
  • Economic systems that leave people behind

4. Inspired by Saints

• He draws inspiration from saints like St. Francis of Assisi, St. Teresa of Calcutta, and St. Oscar Romero, who lived close to the poor and defended their dignity.

📜 What Does the Title Mean?

Dilexi Te means “I Have Loved You.” It comes from the Bible (Revelation 3:9) and echoes Mary’s song in the Gospel:

“He has lifted up the lowly…” (Luke 1:52–53)

The Pope is reminding us that God’s love is especially strong for those who suffer.

🕊️ What Should We Do?

Pope Leo encourages all Christians—whether clergy, religious, or lay people—to:

• Give generously
• Welcome strangers
• Defend the dignity of every person
• Build communities of compassion

🌍 Why It Matters

This document is a call to renew the Church’s mission: not just to preach, but to serve. It’s a reminder that love is not a feeling—it’s a decision to act.