As wars and violence continue to wound nations across the world, Pope Leo XIV is once again calling the faithful to turn to prayer and the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
According to Vatican News, Pope Leo XIV will preside over the recitation of the Holy Rosary on May 30 at the Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes in the Vatican Gardens. The prayer event will take place at 7:00 p.m. local time and marks the conclusion of the Marian month of May.
The Holy Father has consistently appealed for peace throughout his pontificate, urging the world not only to reject violence, but also to seek God through prayer. This worldwide Rosary initiative reflects that mission, inviting Catholics everywhere to unite spiritually with the Pope in praying for those suffering because of war.
According to Vatican News, shrines from around the globe have already confirmed their participation in the event. Among them are the Shrine of the Mother of God in Zarvanytsia, Ukraine; the Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima in Portugal; the Shrine of Our Lady Queen of Peace in Medjugorje; the Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes in France; and the Shrine of Saint Charbel Annaya in Lebanon.
Pope Leo XIV will pray the Joyful Mysteries of the Rosary, with each decade dedicated to a different group impacted by violence and conflict.
According to Vatican News, the first mystery will be offered for victims of war, “especially the most vulnerable.” The second mystery will pray for those who bring hope and spiritual comfort to suffering populations. The third will remember medical personnel, humanitarian workers, and volunteers who continue serving in dangerous conditions.
The fourth mystery will focus on prisoners and all those who endure humiliations and abuses against human dignity during war. The fifth and final mystery will pray for “an end to war and the establishment of lasting peace in the world,” according to Vatican News.
Faithful gathered in Rome will also be able to participate through large screens installed in St. Peter’s Square.
The initiative is being promoted by the Dicastery for Evangelization – Section for Fundamental Questions regarding Evangelization in the World.
As the Church closes the Marian month, Pope Leo XIV’s invitation serves as a reminder that the Rosary remains a powerful spiritual weapon in times of fear, division, and suffering. Catholics around the world are being encouraged to join the Holy Father in entrusting humanity to Mary, Queen of Peace, and praying that hearts may be converted away from violence and toward reconciliation in Christ.
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