Pope Leo XIV says respect for human dignity excludes self centered isolation

Pope Leo XIV told pilgrims in St. Peter’s Square that respect for human dignity requires solidarity and mutual care rather than self-centered isolation. During a general audience, the pope continued a teaching series on the Second Vatican Council document Gaudium et Spes, which addresses the dignity of the human person.

The pope stated that human dignity is a responsibility entrusted to every person and must overcome manipulations that hinder its realization. He noted that the path toward fully realizing this dignity must address both old and new contradictions.

Citing his recent encyclical Magnifica Humanitas, the pope explained that human dignity arises from a person's very being as a creature made in the image of God. He said this identity allows humans to know and love their Creator.