Vatican's Call for Peace: Pope Leo XIV Warns of the Dangers of Global Conflict
Pope Leo XIV conveyed a profound call for world peace during the solemn Easter Vigil Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica on Saturday (4/4) evening. In front of thousands of congregants, the leader of the global Catholic community reminded humanity not to yield to fear and isolation due to war.
In his homily, Pope Leo highlighted the rising distrust and fear that he deemed to have damaged inter-human relations. He cited war, injustice, and isolation between nations as the main factors exacerbating the situation.
“Do not let ourselves be paralysed!” exclaimed the Pope, who hails from the United States.
He also invited the faithful to emulate the saints who struggled for justice, so that the Easter spirit of peace and harmony can grow across the world.
The Easter Vigil Mass, one of the most important celebrations in the Catholic liturgical calendar, was also marked by a baptismal procession for 10 adults who officially joined the Catholic Church.
In front of thousands of congregants filling the largest Christian basilica, Pope Leo emphasised the importance of unity and peace, although he did not specifically mention any particular conflict. However, in recent times, he has been known for vocally criticising the war between the United States, Israel, and Iran.
On the previous Sunday (29/3), he even stated that God rejects the prayers of leaders who start wars with blood-stained hands.
Then, on Tuesday (31/3), he directly called on US President Donald Trump to seek a way out to end the ongoing conflict.
The Pope’s statements received a response from the White House. White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt affirmed that prayer is an important part of the leadership tradition in the United States.
“Our country was founded nearly 250 years ago, almost entirely based on Judeo-Christian values. We have witnessed presidents, War Department leaders, and our soldiers praying during the most turbulent times in our nation’s history,” she said.
“I think there is nothing wrong with our military leaders or the president calling on the American people to pray for our military members abroad. If you speak to so many military personnel, they appreciate prayer and are even supported by military commanders and the cabinet,” Leavitt concluded.
The message delivered by Pope Leo in the mass reaffirmed the importance of global solidarity and collective efforts to stop conflicts amid an increasingly uncertain world situation.
Pope Leo XIV also expressed deep sadness for the suffering of Christians in Palestine and Israel, as well as to all the people of Israel and Palestine.
Pope Leo XIV expressed profound sadness for the victims of bombings in the Middle East, including children and a priest in Lebanon.