Zenit iconZenitSep 23, 2026 ~6 min source read

Pope Leo XIV on the Value of Human Activity: A Summarized Catechesis from Gaudium et Spes

In his General Audience (Sept. 23, 2026) Pope Leo XIV explains why human work, scientific and technical progress, and freedom belong within God’s plan rather than opposing it, drawing on the Second Vatican Council’s Pastoral Constitution Gaudium et Spes.

What is the value of human activity in the world? Pope Leo XIV answers

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Useful takeaways from this story.

Human activity—labor, science, and technical progress—can be understood as unfolding the Creator’s work, not opposing it.

Atheistic humanism, which presents humanity as independent of God, risks denying the transcendent value of the person.

The useful part

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How it works

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  • Ultimately, however, by denying the relationship with God, one also loses the possibility of affirming the transcendent value of the human person.
  • From this perspective, an important truth emerges: to encounter God, the human being must not abandon his earthly occupations, but can live his vocation fully, carrying out his daily work well and...
  • Christians, states Gaudium et Spes, "can justly consider that by their labour they are unfolding the Creator's work, consulting the advantages of their brother men, and are contributing by their personal...

What to take from it

This is the "tragedy of atheistic humanism", well described by a leading theologian of the Second Vatican Council, Henri de Lubac. From Europe's Roots to Its Future, and Schuman's Lessons for Today's World. Share this Entry (ZENIT News / Vatican City, 09.23.2026).- The audience on Wednesday, September 23, took place in St.

Example or evidence

  • Leo XIV provides the answer septiembre 23, 2026 17:15 General Audience, Pope Leo XIV ZENIT Staff View all articles Support ZENIT If you liked this article, support ZENIT now with a donation Donate now
  • [3] Christians, like everyone else, are involved in building the city of man, striving towards the end of all things and the encounter with God, and reminding those with whom they share the adventure of...
  • Dear brothers and sisters, the Second Vatican Council invites us to share the bread of knowledge and know-how, so that every person and every people may develop their potential, and together, with God's...
  • Below is the English text of Leo XIV's catechesis: * Brothers and sisters, good morning and welcome!

Details worth keeping

What is the value of human activity in the world? What should be the purpose of any religious discourse? Where to send your Donation zenit Needs Your Support!

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