Pope Leo XIV Urges Seminarians to Cultivate a ‘Supernatural Gaze’
Vatican City – On Saturday, February 28, 2026, Pope Leo XIV addressed students from four Spanish theological seminaries, emphasizing the critical demand for a “supernatural gaze” in their preparation for the priesthood. Seminarians from Alcalá de Henares, Toledo, Catalonia, and Cartagena attended the audience with their tutors and bishops.
A ‘Sign of Hope’ and the Importance of a Divine Connection
Describing the seminary as a “sign of hope for the Church,” Pope Leo XIV drew upon a recent message delivered to a seminary in Peru, highlighting the necessity of viewing reality through a spiritual lens. He quoted Gilbert Keith Chesterton, stating, “Exclude the supernatural and you will not find the natural, only the unnatural.” The Pope explained that humanity is created for a relationship with God, and severing this connection leads to a loss of inner righteousness. He clarified that being “unnatural” extends beyond overt failings, encompassing a failure to prioritize God’s guidance in daily decisions.
Avoiding Spiritual Emptiness in Priestly Formation
Pope Leo XIV warned against the danger of becoming accustomed to “the works of God” without cultivating a personal relationship with Him. He stressed that a genuine connection with the divine is the foundation of priestly life, originating from an unmerited calling. A supernatural perspective, he explained, doesn’t involve detachment from the world but rather the ability to recognize God’s presence in everyday circumstances. This perspective, he noted, is developed through consistent practice and cannot be acquired secondhand, and is particularly vital for those preparing to act in persona Christi.
Rooted in Faith: Lessons from Scripture
Drawing parallels from scripture, the Pope likened a prophet to a tree planted by water (Psalm 1:3), emphasizing the importance of deep roots in faith to withstand life’s storms. He also referenced the parable of the fig tree (Luke 13:6-9), cautioning against outward appearances of piety masking inner emptiness. Pope Leo XIV warned that spiritual life can “die while standing,” where outward conformity hides a lack of inner vitality. He asserted that true fruitfulness cannot be measured solely by academic achievements or organizational structures but stems from a firm foundation in God.
Continuing a Collegial Approach to Church Governance
This address to the seminarians follows Pope Leo XIV’s commitment to a collegial and synodal style of governing the Church, as demonstrated by his first consistory with the College of Cardinals in January 2026. He announced plans to hold consistories annually, continuing a trajectory established by his predecessor, Pope Francis, to implement the teachings of the Second Vatican Council (America Magazine).
As of February 2026, the College of Cardinals comprises 245 members, with 122 eligible to vote in a conclave (America Magazine).