On the second anniversary of Hamas’ attack on Israel, Pope Leo XIV called on the world to reject hatred and renew its commitment to dialogue and peace. Speaking to journalists outside Villa Barberini in Castel Gandolfo, the Holy Father reflected on two years of suffering and division in the Holy Land.
“These have been two very painful years,” the Pope said, recalling the October 7, 2023, attack that claimed the lives of more than a thousand Israelis. “Two years ago, 1,200 people were killed in a terrorist attack. We must think about how much hatred exists in the world and begin to ask ourselves what we can do. In two years, around 67,000 Palestinians have been killed. We must reduce hatred, we must rediscover the ability to dialogue, to seek peaceful solutions,” he said, according to Vatican News.
Condemning Terrorism and Antisemitism
Pope Leo reaffirmed the Church’s unwavering stand against terrorism and rising antisemitism. “It is certain that we cannot accept groups that engage in terrorism; this style of hatred in the world must always be rejected,” he said. At the same time, he warned that the “existence of antisemitism, whether it is increasing or not, is concerning. We must always proclaim peace, and respect for the dignity of every person. This is the message of the Church,” according to Vatican News.
His remarks came amid heightened tensions and renewed calls for peace in the region, as global leaders continue to struggle for a diplomatic resolution to the ongoing conflict.
The Power of Prayer and the Mission of the Church
Pope Leo urged Catholics worldwide to unite in prayer during October, the month traditionally dedicated to the Rosary, invoking Our Lady’s intercession for peace in the Holy Land. “The Church has asked everyone to pray for peace, especially during this month. We will also seek, in ways available to the Church, to promote dialogue at all times,” he said.
The Pope also defended the recent comments of Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Vatican Secretary of State, whose interview regarding Gaza had drawn criticism from Israeli officials. “The Cardinal very clearly expressed the Holy See’s position on this matter,” the Holy Father said.
Journey to Turkey and Lebanon: A Mission of Hope
The Vatican officially announced that Pope Leo XIV will make his first apostolic journey to Turkey and Lebanon from November 27 to December 2, marking the 1,700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea. The Pope said the trip carries deep spiritual and historical significance.
“The trip to Turkey is motivated by the anniversary of the 1,700 years since the Council of Nicaea. I believe it’s a truly important moment. It’s a journey Pope Francis wanted to make,” the Holy Father explained. “For all Christians, it will be a moment of genuine unity in faith. We must not miss this historic opportunity. But it’s not about looking back—it’s about looking forward,” he said, according to Vatican News.
Bringing Comfort to Lebanon
In Lebanon, Pope Leo said he hopes to bring the “consolation of the Gospel” to a people who continue to suffer amid political and economic crises. “In Lebanon, I will have the opportunity to once again proclaim the message of peace in the Middle East, in a country that has suffered so much,” he said. “We will try to bring this message of peace and hope.”
The Pope’s visit comes as the Church continues to advocate for peace, mercy, and reconciliation across a region still scarred by violence. His call to “rediscover the ability to dialogue” stands as a reminder that, even in times of deep division, the path of prayer and mutual respect remains the surest road toward lasting peace.
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