Pope Leo urges peace, condemns war’s paralysis

In Short:
– Pope Leo XIV urged Catholics to strive for peace amid global conflicts during his first Easter Vigil.
– He emphasised the importance of dialogue to resolve tensions and promote harmony among nations.

Pope Leo XIV held his first Easter Vigil at St. Peter’s Basilica, urging 1.4 billion Catholics to not grow numb to the ongoing global conflicts.He called for peace and harmony, highlighting the dangers of mistrust and fear that divide nations and peoples.

Easter vigil appeals

Pope Leo stressed the need for Catholics to emulate saints who fought for justice to promote Easter’s gifts of harmony and peace.

He did not specify any conflicts but baptised ten adults into Catholicism during the service.

The vigil followed a Holy Week where the pope intensified calls for an end to the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran, which started on February 28.

On Good Friday, he communicated with Israeli President Isaac Herzog and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, urging diplomatic dialogue.

Pope Leo recently appealed to President Donald Trump to seek a peaceful resolution to the conflict.

Last Sunday, he stated that God does not accept the prayers of leaders who instigate wars and has “hands full of blood”.

The Easter Vigil marks the beginning of Leo’s papacy, which commenced in May 2023.

The celebrations will continue with a Mass in St. Peter’s Square on Easter Sunday, where a significant international peace appeal is anticipated.

Calls for peace

The U.S.-Israeli war began with almost 900 attacks by U.S. and Israeli forces against Iranian targets.

Iran retaliated, escalating regional violence and leading to significant casualties.

Pope Leo’s recent statements indicate a strong emphasis on dialogue over conflict to pursue peace.

The Vatican’s diplomatic efforts underscore the need for a renewed commitment to end wars.