Pope Leo XIV Urges for Peace in St. Peter’s Basilica Vigil
During a significant Saturday evening vigil in St. Peter’s Basilica, Pope Leo XIV called for peace amidst global tensions and the ongoing threat of war. He expressed concern over what he termed the “delusion of omnipotence,” which he believes is driving conflicts around the world.
In his powerful address, the Pope tied human limitations to the infinite possibilities of God. He emphasized that through prayer, humanity can confront and overcome the cycle of evil. “A Kingdom without weapons or revenge is what we aspire to,” he said. “It is a realm filled with dignity, understanding, and forgiveness.”
The Pope shared his thoughts on social media and during the vigil, highlighting that war creates division, while hope and faith can bring people together.
He declared, “Let’s end the idolization of power and money. Enough with the warmongering. True strength lies in nurturing life.”
Among the attendees was Belgian Cardinal Dominique Joseph Mathieu, the archbishop of Tehran. His remarks coincided with negotiations between a U.S. delegation and Iran, as concerns of a ceasefire lingered.
Recently, the Pope criticized past threats of violence against Iran, calling such behavior “truly unacceptable.” He noted the moral implications of these threats on innocent lives and emphasized the need for peaceful resolutions.
As talks between the U.S. and Iran commenced in Islamabad, uncertainty loomed over the negotiations. President Donald Trump previously made strong statements on social media regarding potential military actions, which the Pope rebuffed.
For more than a month, the Pope had maintained a quieter stance regarding conflict but increased his calls for peace, particularly during his Easter blessings. He echoed sentiments from Pope Francis, who once warned of a “globalization of indifference” and the human thirst for violence.
The Pope’s remarks aim to inspire a move towards hope and reconciliation in a world increasingly affected by strife and division.
