Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, D.D. Bishop | Archdiocese of Louisville

Pope Francis has released a new encyclical titled "Dilexit nos" ("He loved us"), focusing on the theme of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. In this document, he addresses the challenges of a world that has become indifferent to issues like greed and war, urging both society and the Catholic Church to embrace Christ's infinite love.

The encyclical, which spans 28,000 words, was made public by the Vatican on October 24. It is intended to complement Pope Francis' previous works, "Laudato Si’, on Care for Our Common Home" and "Fratelli Tutti, on Fraternity and Social Friendship." The pope writes that understanding these teachings through the lens of Jesus Christ's love can help forge bonds of fraternity and recognize human dignity.

In June, Pope Francis had announced his intention to release a document in the fall focusing on devotion to the Sacred Heart as a means to guide ecclesial renewal and address what he perceives as a heartless world. The encyclical draws from biblical reflections, magisterial texts, writings of saints, and Jesuit teachings to reintroduce this centuries-old devotion.

Pope Francis emphasizes that humans are made for love but notes that current global conflicts suggest otherwise. He describes witnessing elderly women affected by war as heartbreaking and indicative of a world losing its compassion. The pope urges individuals to ask themselves if they have a heart and highlights the importance of integrating spiritual and emotional dimensions often neglected in today's society.

At a Vatican news conference coinciding with the release, Archbishop Bruno Forte described the encyclical as key to understanding Pope Francis' pontificate. He noted it presents the spiritual foundation underlying his message over the past 12 years: everything springs from Christ's love for humanity.

The pope also calls for Catholics to strengthen their devotion to practices associated with the Sacred Heart of Jesus, such as Eucharistic adoration. He encourages participation in First Fridays devotion as an antidote to modern life's distractions.

This latest encyclical comes as members of the Synod of Bishops conclude their multiyear process focused on fostering a synodal Church centered on communion, participation, and mission.