Pope Leo XIV delivered a strong anti-war message at the conclusion of the interfaith meeting of St. Egidio, held at the Colosseum.
“War is never holy; only peace is holy,” the Pope stated, emphasizing that the world is exhausted by conflicts and divisions.
He called for a true era of reconciliation, one that ends oppression, the use of force, and indifference to justice. “Enough of wars, with their painful toll of deaths, destruction, and displacement. Prayer is a powerful force for reconciliation. Those who do not pray abuse religion, even to the point of killing. No more slogans used against God’s creatures. We believe prayer can change the history of nations,” he added.
Attended by leaders of various Christian communities, the ceremony also echoed the message of Pope Francis, urging religious and political leaders to reject the use of faith for divisive purposes.
“Religions must not be instruments to promote nationalism, ethnic division, or populism. Ending wars is the responsibility of all politicians. God will hold accountable those who have failed to pursue peace or have incited tension and conflict,” Pope Leo XIV emphasized.
