On March 1, during a parish visit to the Church of the Ascension in Rome, Pope Leo XIV delivered a heartfelt appeal for peace and unity in a world shaken by violence.
Speaking openly about the renewed unrest and bombings in the Middle East and ongoing war in Ukraine, the Holy Father said, “I am very worried about what is happening in the world… War, again!” He urged the faithful to become “heralds of the message of peace — the peace of Jesus, the peace that God wants for everyone.”
He reminded parishioners that violence is never the right choice. “We must always choose the good,” he said, encouraging Catholics not only to reject hatred but to actively seek unity and reconciliation.
Addressing elderly parishioners, the Pope emphasized that prayer for peace must begin at home. While we pray for distant conflicts — in the Middle East, in Ukraine, and elsewhere — we must also pray for peace in our neighborhoods, families, and communities. He encouraged parishes to raise their voices constructively, calling upon civic authorities to do more to promote safety, justice, and the common good. A faithful community, he noted, can help bring about meaningful change.
In a moving exchange with children, the Holy Father addressed the reality of evil in the world. Yes, evil exists, he acknowledged. But even more powerful is the truth that love exists. “There is good, there is love,” he said. He reminded them that human beings have the freedom to choose between good and evil, life and death. That freedom is a gift — and each of us is called to choose what is right. By choosing good, even in small daily decisions, we slowly transform the world.
He also expressed sorrow for children suffering in places like Gaza and urged young people to reject destructive paths such as drug use, choosing instead lives rooted in hope and dignity.
In a meeting with the parish council, the Holy Father offered a strong warning against an overly individualistic spirituality. Faith is not simply “God and me,” disconnected from others. Jesus did not gather isolated individuals; He formed a community. When He gave us the Eucharist, He gave us communion — not only with Himself, but with one another. Authentic Christian life is rooted in fraternal love, encounter, and shared responsibility.
This message resonates deeply with us here in the United States. We might be tempted to withdraw into private faith or personal comfort. Yet the Gospel calls us outward — toward dialogue, compassion, and courageous peacemaking.
As we continue our Lenten journey, especially on this Third Sunday of Lent with its theme of spiritual thirst, we are reminded that our world thirsts for peace, truth, and unity. Christ alone offers the living water that can soften hardened hearts and heal divisions.
Reflection Questions:
In a world wounded by war and division, how am I choosing good over evil in my daily words and actions?
Do I treat my faith as something private, or am I living it in communion and active love toward others?
Where is Christ inviting me to be a voice of peace — in my family, workplace, parish, or community?
May this Lenten season renew in us a deeper thirst for Christ’s peace and make us instruments of His reconciliation in a troubled world.
Footnote: Pope Leo XIV, Address during parish visit to the Church of the Ascension of Our Lord Jesus Christ, Rome, March 1, 2026.