Love of God and love of neighbor have become one: in the least of the brethren we find Jesus himself, and in Jesus we find God.

Analysis

In *Deus Caritas Est* (§15), Pope Benedict XVI explicitly connects love of God and love of neighbor, citing Matthew 25:40 ('as you did it to one of the least of these my brethren, you did it to me'). The encyclical emphasizes that encountering Christ in the poor and marginalized unites these loves. The phrasing aligns with the statement's claim.

Background

*Deus Caritas Est* (God Is Love) is Benedict XVI's first encyclical, exploring the relationship between eros and agape, and the Church's charitable mission. The passage in question synthesizes biblical teaching (e.g., 1 John 4:20) with Catholic social doctrine.

Verdict summary

The statement accurately reflects the theological teaching in Pope Benedict XVI's 2005 encyclical *Deus Caritas Est*.

Sources consulted