VATICAN CITY, KONTAK BANTEN — The leader of the Catholic Church, Pope Leo XIV, called for an end to global conflicts during his Easter Mass at St. Peter’s Square, Vatican, on Sunday (April 5, 2026).
Delivering his traditional Urbi et Orbi (“to the city and the world”) blessing, the Pope urged world leaders to abandon ambitions of power and choose the path of peace amid escalating tensions across the globe.
Speaking before thousands of faithful gathered at St. Peter's Square, Pope Leo highlighted the growing number of conflicts worldwide and warned against the normalization of violence in society.
“Let those who hold weapons lay them down,” he declared, as reported by Reuters. “Let those who have the power to wage war choose peace instead.”
Warning Against Normalization of Violence
Although he did not mention specific conflicts, the message is widely seen as a response to rising global tensions, including escalating instability in regions such as Iran.
Pope Leo expressed deep concern that societies are becoming increasingly desensitized to violence, warning that passive acceptance of war could worsen global conditions.
He emphasized that humanity must not surrender to such realities but instead actively pursue peace and reconciliation.
“Humanity must not grow indifferent. We are called to resist violence and uphold peace,” he stressed.
Easter Reflection: A Message of Nonviolence
In his Easter reflection, Pope Leo drew on the resurrection of Jesus Christ, emphasizing the Christian teaching of nonviolence even in the face of suffering.
He described the crucifixion as a powerful symbol that peace and restraint remain relevant responses, even amid modern conflicts.
“On this holy day, let us abandon all desires for conflict, domination, and power, and ask God to grant His peace to a world afflicted by war,” he said.
Increasingly Vocal on Global Conflicts
In recent weeks, Pope Leo XIV has become more outspoken in criticizing war and violence, including tensions involving Iran. He had previously called on former U.S. President Donald Trump to seek peaceful solutions to ongoing conflicts.
During the Easter Vigil Mass the night before, he also warned against growing indifference to human suffering caused by war.
Prayer for Peace Initiative
In addition to his main address, Pope Leo delivered Easter greetings in multiple languages, including Latin, Arabic, and Mandarin, reflecting the global nature of the Catholic community.
He concluded the celebration by announcing a special global prayer for peace, scheduled to take place on April 11, 2026, at St. Peter’s Basilica.
The Vatican hopes the initiative will unite people across nations and faiths in a shared call for an end to violence and a renewed commitment to peace worldwide.
