Pope Leo says a nation judged by how it treats disabled citizens

Pope Leo XIV visited a home for people with disabilities on the outskirts of Buenos Aires on Monday, telling Argentines that a nation's progress should be judged by how it treats its most vulnerable citizens.

Addressing residents, staff and volunteers, Leo said disabled people were "not a burden on society" but "a blessing."

“The progress of a nation is also measured by the welcome it extends to all people with disabilities and special needs,” said the pontiff in a speech at the Cottolengo Don Orione in Claypole, south of Buenos Aires.

Before his address, the Pope had spent time with the faithful, members of religious orders and people with disabilities who live there.

“The tremendous work you carry out day in, day out with such love is a solid foundation for building a new city – the city of charity, of coexistence and of peace,” said the Holy Father.

The Pontiff noted proudly that the Cottolengo is “a fraternal community with open doors."

“My wish for this country is that it may be capable of carrying out great works of charity, where the love of Christ triumphs over exclusion. I envisage thousands of young people joining the ranks of charity volunteers, and that in Argentina a new generation of saints of charity – the charity of Christ – may emerge,” the Pope said.

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