Pope Leo, wars are a scandal for the human family

Pope Leo launches a new appeal for peace because wars "are a scandal for the entire human family". The Pontiff calls for "an end to hostilities and for paths of peace to be finally opened".

"I continue to follow with dismay," Pope Leo said at the Angelus, "the situation in the Middle East, as well as in other regions of the world torn by war and violence. We cannot remain silent before the suffering of so many people who are helpless victims of these conflicts. What hurts them hurts the whole of humanity. The death and pain caused by these wars are a scandal for the entire human family and a cry before God," said Pope Leo XIV at the end of the Angelus in St. Peter's Square. "I strongly renew the appeal to persevere in prayer, so that hostilities may cease and paths of peace based on sincere dialogue and respect for the dignity of every human person may finally be opened".

Pope Leo XIV sent a message of condolence on the death of Patriarch Ilia II of Georgia. "He was a devout witness to faith in the Risen Christ," the Pontiff recalled, emphasising that "his ministry accompanied the Georgian people through difficult times and profound epochal changes, lovingly preserving tradition and opening hearts and communities to hope". He also recalled 'his deep passion for music, which is a stimulus to the search for God's beauty and can unite peoples, bringing the Churches closer together beyond cultural and theological differences'. The Patriarch, said Leo, 'for many, he was a spiritual father, a voice of reconciliation and a tireless builder of unity'.

The Pontiff also greeted the Rome Marathon. "Today the great marathon takes place in Rome, with many athletes from all over the world. This is a sign of hope. May sport trace paths of peace, social inclusion and spirituality," said Pope Leo XIV, after the Angelus in St. Peter's Square.