Pope Leo XIV Reaffirms Pro-Life Stance in First Visit to Monaco

Pope Leo XIV reaffirmed the Catholic Church's commitment to defending human life "from conception to its natural end" during his apostolic visit to Monaco on Saturday, the first by any pope to the principality.

Speaking to Monaco's Catholic community from the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, the pope—formerly Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost—urged believers to proclaim the Gospel of life, hope, and love. "Announce the Gospel of life, hope, and love; carry to all the light of the Gospel so that the life of every man and every woman is defended and promoted from conception to natural death," he said, according to Vatican News and local reports.

Leo XIV praised Prince Albert II for rejecting an abortion bill last year, a move that halted the legislation since the prince's signature is constitutionally required. The pope positioned the Church as an "advocate" for human integrity, calling on it to illuminate individuals and society through Christ's teachings, fostering solidarity and respect for life's ultimate purpose.

He warned against faith becoming mere custom, despite its deep roots in Monegasque identity, and encouraged the community to examine whether they are truly protecting human dignity at every stage. Keeping focus on Jesus Christ as advocate before the Father, Leo XIV said, generates a living faith capable of transforming lives and renewing society amid cultural diversity.

This message carries weight for Andorra, where reproductive rights debates face hurdles amid the Church's influence and co-principality links to the Holy See. With Pietro Parolin remaining secretary of state, the pope's first official trip to European soil signals continuity with prior stances.