Pope Leo XIV called for an immediate ceasefire in the Middle East and condemned the use of God’s name to justify war during a Mass on March 15. The pope made these remarks while celebrating Mass at the Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus on the outskirts of Rome, as well as during his address to those gathered for the Angelus prayer in St. Peter’s Square.
The pope’s statements come amid ongoing violence in the Middle East, including recent attacks involving the United States, Israel, Iran, and Lebanon. His appeal highlights concerns about civilian suffering and urges leaders to seek peaceful solutions through dialogue rather than conflict.
“God cannot be enlisted by darkness,” Pope Leo said in his homily. “Rather, he always comes to bring light, hope and peace to humanity, and it is peace that must be sought by those who call upon him.” He criticized those who invoke God’s name in support of violent actions, calling such justifications “absurd” and emphasizing that problems should not be resolved through war.
After praying the Angelus at noon with crowds in St. Peter’s Square, Pope Leo addressed those responsible for ongoing conflicts: “I appeal to those responsible for this conflict: cease fire! May paths of dialogue be reopened! Violence can never lead to the justice, stability and peace for which the people are waiting.” He noted that thousands have been killed or displaced due to recent attacks affecting schools, hospitals, and residential areas.
Expressing concern for Lebanon’s situation, Pope Leo said he hoped authorities would receive support through dialogue “in implementing lasting solutions to the serious crisis currently unfolding, for the common good of all the Lebanese people.” During his visit with parishioners later that day, he praised community efforts serving vulnerable groups such as immigrants and prisoners.
In closing his homily on Laetare Sunday—the fourth Sunday of Lent—Pope Leo encouraged believers to nurture God’s gift of light through prayer and charity. He urged faith communities to remain attentive to global suffering: “It should likewise open our eyes to the darkness of the world and bring to others the light of the Gospel through our commitment to peace, justice and solidarity.”
