A Message from Pope Leo XIV to Villanova University’s Class of 2026

Pope Leo XIV-the former Cardinal Robert F. Prevost, OSA, '77 College of Liberal Arts and Sciences-is the first Pope from the United States and the first Augustinian friar to be elected pontiff.

"Graduates, it is fitting that I share with you today a message from a very special member of our Villanova community-an alumnus who once sat where you are sitting now, as a proud graduate of the Class of 1977," said the Rev. Peter M. Donohue, OSA, PhD, Villanova University President. "Pope Leo XIV has asked me to share these words with you as you begin your journey beyond Villanova"

Message from Pope Leo XIV to Villanova's Class of 2026

"The world beyond Villanova is waiting for you, sometimes with open arms, and sometimes with truly dangerous intent. You will have the challenge and the opportunity to make a big difference, if you carry with you those Augustinian values of Veritas, Unitas, Caritas.

This being the 250th anniversary of the United States of America, I would invite you to recall in a special way the guiding principles of the foundations of our nation:

'We hold these truths to be self-evident: that all [people] are created equal; that they are endowed by our Creator with certain inalienable rights, and among those are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of happiness.'

May the graduates of 2026 always be faithful to the guiding light that has been so important for these 250 years. Congratulations, and please know that I send all of you my apostolic blessing."

Fraternally,
Leo XIV