Pope Condemns War at Palm Sunday Mass, Urges Peaceful Prayers

Pope Leo XIV celebrated Palm Sunday of the Lord’s Passion with Mass in St. Peter’s Square. He used his homily to present Jesus as the King of Peace who rejects violence.

Message from the square

The pope asked the faithful to walk the Way of the Cross with Christ. He said the Passion is a gift of love for all people.

He contrasted Jesus’ meekness with the violence surrounding him. The pope noted that Jesus embraced humanity while others raised swords and clubs.

Biblical examples and pastoral teaching

The pope recalled the episode when a disciple struck the high priest’s servant. He reminded listeners that Jesus ordered the sword to be put away.

Jesus accepts suffering rather than return violence, the pope said. He described Christ as led like a lamb to the slaughter.

Condemning war and misplaced prayers

He warned that Christ cannot be used to justify armed conflict. The pope cited Isaiah’s warning that prayers mean nothing if hands are stained by blood.

Pope Condemns War at Palm Sunday Mass, Urges Peaceful Prayers, and he appealed directly for weapons to be set aside. He insisted that prayers offered by those who wage war go unheard.

Appeal for mercy and solidarity

The pope lamented the many wounds on the human family caused by violence. He spoke of the painful groans of those oppressed by war and conflict.

He called Christians to mercy and to remember their shared brotherhood. He urged an end to hostilities so that suffering may diminish.

Reflection from Bishop Tonino Bello

Quoting the late Bishop Tonino Bello, the pope invoked Mary at the foot of the cross. He asked for the certainty that death will not have the last word.

The bishop’s prayer also envisioned injustices being counted and the flashes of war fading. It asked that the tears of victims be dried like frost beneath the spring sun.

Report by Devin Watkins for Filmogaz.com.