ACN (UK) National Director Dr Caroline Hull with Pope Leo
Pope Leo XIV Praises ACN’s Devotion to Persecuted Christians
At a private audience today (Friday, 10th October) in the Vatican with leaders and other senior staff from the Catholic charity, the Pontiff stressed the centrality of religious freedom as a fundamental human right.
Attending the meeting was Dr Caroline Hull, National Director, ACN (UK), who presented the Pope with an icon from Ukraine, where the charity has provided significant spiritual and emergency support.
Your visit is timely, for our world continues to witness rising hostility and violence against those who hold different convictions, including many Christians.
In contrast, your mission proclaims that, as one family in Christ, we do not abandon our persecuted brothers and sisters.
Rather, we remember them, we stand with them, and we labour to secure their God-given freedoms.
βοΈ Religious Freedom: “Not Optional But Essential”
The Holy Father’s Teaching on Religious Freedom
The Holy Father underlined that “the right to religious freedom is not optional but essential”, describing it as “a cornerstone of any just society, for it safeguards the moral space in which conscience may be formed and exercised”.
“Religious freedom, therefore, is not merely a legal right or a privilege granted to us by governments. It is a foundational condition that makes authentic reconciliation possible.”
π ACN’s Historic Mission
Founded in the Aftermath of World War II
Pope Leo XIV recalled the origins of ACN, which was founded in 1947, saying its mission has always been to:
1947- β Foster forgiveness and reconciliation
- β Accompany the Church wherever she is in need
- β Give voice to the Church wherever she is threatened
- β Support the Church wherever she suffers
πΊπΈπ΅πͺ Pope’s Personal Connection to ACN
From Chiclayo to the Vatican
The American Pope, who has dual nationality with Peru, expressed his gratitude for the support he received from ACN between 2014 and 2023 when he served the Diocese of Chiclayo.
“Your commitment also extends to supporting the Church’s mission across the world by reaching communities that are too often isolated, marginalised or under pressure.”
ACN’s Global Impact
“Wherever Aid to the Church in Need rebuilds a chapel, supports a religious sister, or provides for a radio station or a vehicle, you strengthen the life of the Church, as well as the spiritual and moral fabric of society.”
Restoring places of worship
Empowering sisters and clergy
Broadcasting hope and faith
Enabling pastoral outreach
π¬π§ UK Delegation’s Gift
Dr Caroline Hull Presents Icon from Ukraine
National Director Dr Caroline Hull said it was an “honour representing ACN (UK) benefactors and staff” as she presented the pontiff with the icon of Our Lady of Victories.
πΌοΈ Icon of Our Lady of Victories
Origin: Written by an ACN project partner in Ukraine
Blessed: Tuesday, October 7th at a cathedral in Aldershot, Hampshire
Significance: Symbol of spiritual support for Ukraine during ongoing conflict
π The Global Delegation
27 Representatives from Around the World
The delegation on Friday morning was led by Cardinal Mauro Piacenza, ACN’s International President, and Regina Lynch, Executive President, and included representatives from many of its 23 national offices.
- Cardinal Mauro Piacenza – International President, ACN
- Regina Lynch – Executive President, ACN
- Dr Caroline Hull – National Director, ACN (UK)
- Tim Church – Chair, Board of Trustees, ACN (UK)
- 24 Additional Representatives from ACN’s 23 national offices worldwide
π Religious Freedom in the World Report 2025
The Pope was given an advance copy of ACN’s Religious Freedom in the World Report 2025
LAUNCH: October 21stThe comprehensive report will document the state of religious freedom globally and highlight areas of persecution.
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