Leo XIV thanks Italian police serving at the Vatican

The Bishop of Rome expressed his “deep gratitude” to the leaders and staff of the Public Security Inspectorate at the Vatican for their service in protecting the “many pilgrims and tourists” who visit the microstate.

He recalled the “intense days” of 2025, marked by a jubilee of the Catholic Church that attracted more than 33 million visitors to Rome, and by major events such as the funeral of Pope Francis and the conclave.

According to recently published figures, the Prefecture of the Pontifical Household reported a total of 3,176,620 participants in audiences and liturgical celebrations at the Vatican over the past year.

Under international treaties between the two countries, the Italian police have the right to intervene in St. Peter's Square, constituting a unique case of a state police force exercising its functions on the territory of another state.

In his speech, Leo XIV praised the “spirit of sacrifice, professionalism, flexibility, and discretion” of these police officers, who are based on the outskirts of St. Peter's Square.

He also expressed his thoughts for their loved ones who have had to adapt to their work schedules and their absence.

“A safe environment is a great help for prayer,” said the head of the Catholic Church, thanking these police officers for ensuring “a peaceful and contemplative atmosphere” for pilgrims.

The Pope offered them as their “compass” and “program” a prayer to St. Michael the Archangel, patron saint of the State Police: “[Give] integrity to our minds, vigor to our wills, honesty to our feelings, for the serenity of our homes and for the dignity of our land.”