‘Begin your lives anew,’ Pope tells prisoners

November 12, 2026

Pope Leo XIV visited the Federal Penitentiary Complex in Buenos Aires (video) and called on prisoners to “begin your lives anew.”

“Your time in this institution can be an opportunity to begin anew, making peace with God and returning without fear to the embrace of your families and society,” Pope Leo said during his visit, which took place on November 11, the sixth day of his apostolic journey to three South American nations (program). “I would like to emphasize all the more that prison is also a witness to profound changes and conversions, to growth, learning and the acquisition of new skills and knowledge.”

“After experiencing human fragility in its most painful form, many have learned to transform the desert of their own existence into a fruitful garden,” he continued. “Indeed, with God’s grace, it is possible to move beyond total darkness and kindle small lights of hope. These glimmers of light also radiate beyond these walls: into your families, among those who work here and throughout society.”

The Pontiff also addressed remarks to families of prisoners, to prison workers and volunteers, and to “the authorities and the whole of Argentinian society”:

I would like to say that it is precisely within our limitations that compassion, sincere concern for the needs of others and generosity find a place. We are part of the same human family. Let us promote whatever contributes to the good of all. Let us accompany especially our children and young people, educating them in authentic values, caring for them and protecting them, so that they do not fall into the pernicious networks of criminality. The Lord will call us to account for what we have done for each of our brothers and sisters.

 

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Further information:

• Apostolic Journey to Argentina: Visit to the Federal Prison Complex in Buenos Aires (Dicastery for Communication - Vatican Media, 11/11/26)
• Visit to the Buenos Aires Federal Penitentiary Complex (Holy See Press Office, 11/11/26)
• Pope to prisoners in Argentina: Human person flourishes through limitations (Vatican News, 11/11/26)