Pope Leo XIV delivered a forceful condemnation of religious justifications for warfare during Palm Sunday Mass at St. Peter's Square, addressing tens of thousands of worshippers as Holy Week began. The first American-born pontiff used the occasion to reject claims that God supports military action, emphasizing that divine authority cannot be invoked to legitimize violence.
Speaking from the steps of St. Peter's Basilica, the Pope drew parallels between Jesus Christ's peaceful kingship and contemporary conflicts. He highlighted the contrast between Christ's message of peace and the violence occurring across multiple global theaters, particularly in the Middle East where conflicts have intensified in recent months.
Brothers and sisters, this is our God: Jesus, King of peace. A God who rejects war, whom no one can use to justify war, who does not listen to the prayer of those who wage war and rejects it, saying: 'Even if you multiply your prayers, I will not listen: your hands are full of blood'
Pope Leo XIV — Euronews
The papal message comes amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, where a conflict involving Iran has entered its second month. The Pope has repeatedly called for ceasefires and condemned military airstrikes, describing them as indiscriminate attacks that should be prohibited under international law.
During his address, Leo XIV specifically mentioned Christians in the Middle East who are unable to properly observe Holy Week traditions due to ongoing violence. The pontiff expressed particular concern for those suffering under what he termed an "atrocious conflict" that has disrupted religious observances across the region.
Provides comprehensive coverage of the Pope's Palm Sunday message with extensive direct quotes. Frames the story as a religious leader's call for peace during Holy Week celebrations.
Emphasizes the Pope's criticism of using God to justify war and specifically mentions US officials' religious rhetoric. Frames the story within the context of ongoing Iran conflict and American military justifications.
Offers brief, factual reporting on the Pope's rejection of religious war justifications. Focuses on the Palm Sunday Mass setting and prayers for Middle East Christians.
Christ, King of peace, still cries out from his cross: God is love! Have mercy! Lay down your arms, remember that you are brothers!
Pope Leo XIV — Euronews
The Pope's remarks appear to respond to recent statements by some political and military leaders who have used religious rhetoric to justify military actions. Notably, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth recently prayed for "overwhelming violence of action against those who deserve no mercy" during a Pentagon religious service, highlighting the tension between religious messaging and military policy.
Following the Mass, Pope Leo XIV moved through the crowds, blessing worshippers and greeting children. Spanish pilgrims called out to him about his upcoming June visit to Spain, to which he responded with smiles and waves. The Pope concluded the day with the traditional Angelus prayer, reiterating his calls for peace and specifically mentioning those unable to celebrate Holy Week properly due to conflict.
This Palm Sunday message marks Leo XIV's first Holy Week as pontiff since his election in May 2025. His strong stance against religious justifications for warfare continues a pattern of increasingly direct criticism of global conflicts, positioning the Vatican as a voice for peace amid rising international tensions.