Pope Leo calls for peace amid global conflicts at Vatican vigil

Pope Leo delivered a passionate speech during a peace vigil at St. Peter's Basilica on April 11, 2026, sharply criticizing warmongers and urging global leaders to embrace dialogue over rearmament. The 70-year-old head of the world's 1.4 billion Catholics called for an end to "the idolatry of self and money" and declared that "true strength is shown in serving life" amid multiple conflicts worldwide.

Addressing both national leaders and ordinary people, the Chicago-born pontiff implored: "Stop! It is time for peace!" and specifically urged leaders to "sit at the table of dialogue and mediation, not at the table where rearmament is planned." Pope Leo, who succeeded Pope Francis last May, emphasized the need to build a "kingdom of peace" in homes, schools, and communities, describing it as a bulwark against "the delusion of omnipotence that surrounds us and is becoming increasingly unpredictable and aggressive."

The pope painted a grim picture of the current world "where there never seem to be enough graves, for people continue to crucify one another," and specifically criticized the "senseless and inhuman violence" in the Middle East and the ongoing US-Israeli war on Iran. While not naming specific politicians or countries, Leo has consistently called for de-escalation and diplomatic solutions to global conflicts. With global tensions rising, how can ordinary citizens influence their leaders to choose peace over perpetual conflict?

SOURCE: https://www.channelstv.com/2026/04/11/middle-east-enough-of-war-pope-leo-says-in-fiery-speech/