Article by Viory
Pope Leo XIV seemingly addressed the ongoing escalations in the Middle East during his homily at the Palm Sunday mass in St. Peter’s Square.
“Jesus, king of peace, a God who rejects war, whom no one can use to justify, who does not listen to the prayer of those who wage war, and rejects it, saying, ‘Even if you multiply prayers, I will not listen; your hands are dripping with blood’,” he said.
“He was like a lamb led to the slaughter, like a sheep silent before its shearers. He did not arm himself, did not defend himself, did not fight any war,” the pontiff continued.
Pope Leo also recognised those who are oppressed by violence and all the victims of war in his message, urging all parties involved in the conflict to ‘lay down their weapons’.
“We look at Jesus, who presents Himself as the king of peace while war is being prepared around Him, He who remains steadfast in gentleness while others are agitated in violence,” he said.
This comes as global tensions continue to rise following joint US–Israeli military operations against Iran, launched on February 28, and the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.
The conflict has triggered retaliatory strikes, disrupted energy markets, and heightened fears of fuel shortages in countries heavily dependent on imports.
Palm Sunday is the last Sunday before Easter when Christians commemorate the arrival of Jesus Christ in Jerusalem. The date marks the 7th Sunday of the Lenten season in Christianity, lasting 55 days until Easter. It also marks the beginning of the Holy Week.
Vatican Media, via Viory.Video
Related Post:
Share this content:
