From April 13 to 17, 2026, the shepherds of the Church in Mexico will convene for the 120th Plenary Assembly of the Mexican Episcopal Conference. This gathering is not merely an administrative meeting, but a sacred space where, in prayer and fraternal communion, they seek to listen to the voice of the Holy Spirit for our time.
In moments when many communities face complex realities, the Church comes together to discern how to be light in the midst of shadows. As the Apostle Paul reminds us: "For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline" (2 Timothy 1:7, NIV). This assembly seeks precisely that: to strengthen that spirit of love and courage that characterizes those who follow Christ.
Listening to the Cries of the People
Our nation lives through realities that touch the human heart deeply. The pain of families searching for their loved ones, the fear that settles in entire communities, and the hope that struggles to stay alive in adverse circumstances. In the midst of all this, the Church does not remain indifferent.
The bishops, as shepherds of the flock, carry these realities in their hearts. Their meeting has a clear purpose: to seek ways to accompany, comfort, and propose alternatives for life where death seems to reign. As Jesus himself taught us: "I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full" (John 10:10, NIV).
Peace as Right and Gift
In a world marked by conflicts and various forms of violence, peace presents itself not only as a social need but as a gift from God. The Church in Mexico, through its shepherds, seeks to promote this peace that transcends circumstances.
"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid" (John 14:27, NIV).
This peace of Christ is what we want to build in our society. Not a superficial peace that ignores injustices, but a deep peace born of justice, truth, and love. The bishops' assembly will reflect precisely on how to be instruments of this peace in concrete contexts.
Dimensions of Ecclesial Commitment
The bishops' work in this assembly will cover several essential dimensions for the Church's mission:
- Pastoral Accompaniment: How to be close to those who suffer, listening to their pains and hopes.
- Constructive Dialogue: Seeking bridges of communication with different sectors of society.
- Community Formation: Strengthening Christian communities to be spaces of welcome and transformation.
- Prophetic Witness: Announcing the hope of the Gospel in the midst of complex realities.
Collaboration for the Common Good
The Church recognizes that building a more just and peaceful society requires everyone's collaboration. In their assembly, the bishops will reflect on how to work together with:
- Civil authorities, respecting each other's spaces but collaborating for the common good.
- Other religious confessions, in an ecumenical spirit of respect and shared seeking.
- Civil society organizations working for human dignity.
- Local communities, which are the living heart of the Church.
This collaboration is based on biblical teaching: "Make every effort to live in peace with everyone" (Hebrews 12:14, NIV). It is not about imposing visions, but about building together from mutual respect.
A Church That Walks With Its People
Under the pontificate of Pope Leo XIV, the universal Church continues its path of synodality, listening, and communal discernment. The assembly of Mexican bishops is part of this ecclesial movement, seeking to be faithful to their vocation as shepherds who walk with their people, especially in the most difficult moments. As the Second Vatican Council teaches us, the Church is the People of God on the move, and these gatherings are a living expression of that reality.
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