Pope Leo called on global leaders during his Easter address to put an end to the ongoing conflicts worldwide and to reject any ambitions for power, conquest, or dominance. Addressing the crowd gathered in St. Peter’s Square, the Pope expressed concern over the growing acceptance of violence and indifference among people.
In a special message known as the Urbi et Orbi blessing, Pope Leo, the first U.S. pope, urged those in possession of weapons to lay them down and those capable of starting wars to choose peace. He emphasized the non-violent nature of Christ during Easter, highlighting the importance of abandoning conflict, domination, and power for a world plagued by warfare.
Pope Leo has been increasingly vocal about condemning global conflicts and has specifically criticized the Middle East war. During the Easter vigil sermon, he encouraged people to actively pursue peace rather than succumb to the overwhelming scale of global conflicts. The Pope even directly appealed to U.S. President Donald Trump to seek a resolution to end the war.
Speaking to the crowd below from St. Peter’s Basilica, adorned with vibrant flowers for the holiday, Pope Leo extended Easter greetings in ten languages and announced a forthcoming prayer vigil for peace on April 11.