The founder of the Shalom Catholic Community, Moysés Azevedo, was received by Pope Leo XIV in a private audience at the Vatican on Friday, June 19. During the private meeting, he presented the Holy Father with an overview of the life and charism of the Shalom Community, as well as some of its principal initiatives supporting the Church’s mission of evangelization, with particular emphasis on youth outreach and human development.
One of the most significant moments of the audience was the presentation of a pectoral cross depicting the Risen Christ to the Pontiff. The gift, offered by Moysés Azevedo, expresses the spirituality of the Shalom Charism and its mission of service to the Church.
In addition to Moysés Azevedo, Fr. Saulo Dantas, General Assistant of the Shalom Community, and Fr. Karlian Vale, a missionary of the Community of Life, also had the opportunity to greet the Holy Father before the audience.
On behalf of the Shalom Catholic Community, Moysés expressed to the Pope the Community’s devotion, fidelity, and willingness to serve the Church’s evangelizing mission. The meeting was marked by a strong spirit of ecclesial communion.
Moysés said the audience was a serene and joyful encounter, marked by the Holy Father’s closeness to the leaders of ecclesial movements and new communities. The Pope conveyed warmth and simplicity in his interactions with those present. According to the founder of the Community, when he approached the Pope, Leo XIV recognized him from previous meetings dating back to the time when he was still a cardinal and also recognized the Shalom Community.
The audience comes during a special year for the Shalom Family, which is preparing to celebrate the 45th anniversary of the Shalom Catholic Community. As part of the celebration, the Shalom 45th Anniversary Convention will take place in Rome from November 15–21, with one of its most anticipated moments being an encounter with Pope Leo XIV.
Let Us Pray for Pope Leo XIV
O God, Shepherd and Guide of all the faithful, look with kindness upon your servant, Pope Leo XIV, who governs your Church. Through your grace, grant him wisdom and courage to fulfill the mission entrusted to him. Bless him in his words and actions, protect him in his travels and in his encounters with the faithful, and strengthen him in his faith and love for you and for all the members of the Church. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Learn more about the Shalom Convention 2026 and register HERE.
