Pope Leo XIV appeals for an end to discrimination and persecution against Christians, and prays that all violence may cease and believers may work together for the common good.
By Devin Watkins
As he led the Angelus at noon on Sunday, Pope Leo XIV launched a heartfelt appeal for people who endure the horrors of violence and war.
He lamented discrimation and persecution of Christians, condemning attacks on places of worship.
“I think especially of Bangladesh, Nigeria, Mozambique, Sudan, and other countries from which we frequently hear of attacks on communities and places of worship,” he said. “God is a merciful Father who desires peace among all His children!”
The Pope expressed his closeness with families in the North Kivu region of the Democratic Republic of Congo.
On Friday evening, terrorists killed around 20 civilians at a Church-run hospital in the village of Byambwe.
“Let us pray that all violence may cease and that believers may work together for the common good,” he added.
Pope Leo noted that he continues to follow news of attacks against Ukrainian cities, especially Kyiv, which have inflicted serious damage to civilian infrastructure and loss of life.
“We must not grow accustomed to war and destruction!” he said. “Let us pray together for a just and lasting peace in war-torn Ukraine.”
Prayers for victims of road accidents
The Pope also prayed for victims of a serious road accident in southern Peru on Wednesday.
At least 37 people died when a bus headed from Chala to Arequipa hit another vehicle and careened into a ravine.
“May the Lord welcome the deceased, sustain the injured, and comfort the grieving families,” he said. “We also remember all who have died in road accidents, too often caused by irresponsible behavior. May each of us examine our conscience on this matter.”
Italian Church marks Day of Prayer for Victims of Abuse
In conclusion, Pope Leo XIV recalled that the Church in Italy observed Sunday as a Day of Prayer for the Victims and Survivors of Abuse.
He prayed that “a culture of respect may grow as a safeguard of the dignity of every person, especially minors and the most vulnerable.”
