As conflicts continue to afflict nations around the world, Pope Leo XIV has once again urged the faithful to pray for peace and called on those in positions of authority to seek justice and reconciliation.
Speaking during the Angelus in St. Peter’s Square on May 31, the Holy Father reflected on the Church’s month-long devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary and highlighted the power of prayer, especially the Rosary, in times of suffering and uncertainty.
The Pope’s appeal came just one day after he led a worldwide Rosary from the Lourdes Grotto in the Vatican Gardens. According to Vatican News, approximately 2,000 people joined him in person, while an estimated 100,000 faithful participated remotely from 200 Marian shrines across the globe.
During the Angelus, Pope Leo entrusted the victims of war to the maternal care of the Blessed Virgin and prayed that world leaders would be guided by wisdom and compassion.
“Throughout the month of May, the whole Church has raised a united prayer for peace,” the Pope said, according to Vatican News. “Through the Rosary in particular, like an unbroken chain, the faithful have entrusted to the Virgin Mary’s intercession those peoples devastated by war.”
He then offered a direct prayer for those responsible for governing nations and making decisions that affect millions of lives.
“May divine Wisdom enlighten the consciences of those who hold authority and guide their decisions towards the sincere pursuit of a just and lasting peace,” Pope Leo said, according to Vatican News.
The Holy Father’s words continue a recurring theme of his pontificate: that peace is not merely the absence of conflict but a gift that must be sought through prayer, conversion, and a commitment to justice.
The Pope also drew attention to Italy’s 25th Day of Relief, an annual observance dedicated to supporting those who suffer from illness and promoting compassionate care for patients and families.
Expressing his closeness to those facing physical and emotional hardship, Pope Leo said, “I am close to those who are ill and to all who care for them. I thank and encourage everyone who helps to spread a culture of closeness and care,” according to Vatican News.
The Day of Relief promotes awareness of palliative care, pain management, and the importance of accompanying those who are suffering. It also recognizes the work of volunteers, caregivers, and medical professionals who bring comfort and dignity to patients during difficult times.
For Catholics, the Pope’s message serves as a reminder that caring for the sick is a vital expression of Christian charity. Throughout the Gospels, Christ consistently showed compassion toward those who were suffering, calling His followers to do the same.
Following the Angelus, Pope Leo greeted several groups of pilgrims, including participants in the annual pilgrimage to the Marian shrine of Piekary in Poland. The shrine, where Mary is venerated as the Mother of Social Justice, has been a place of devotion for centuries and attracts tens of thousands of pilgrims each year.
As the month dedicated to Our Lady came to a close, Pope Leo’s message united two enduring themes of Catholic life: prayer for peace and care for those who suffer. By entrusting the world’s wounds to the Blessed Virgin Mary and encouraging acts of compassion, the Holy Father invited Catholics everywhere to become instruments of Christ’s healing and peace.
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