Pope Leo XIV: Peace Is Possible Even Amid Conflict, War and Violence

Vatican City, May 31, 2026: Pope Leo XIV urged Christians to make peace a daily commitment, insisting that genuine peace remains possible even in times of war and conflict when people choose to listen to the suffering of others.

The Pope made the appeal while leading the Rosary for peace at the Grotto of Lourdes in the Vatican Gardens on 31 May, bringing the Marian month to a close. Joined by around 2,000 pilgrims and people connected from Marian shrines worldwide, he prayed particularly for those living in regions affected by violence and war.

Reflecting on Psalm 85, Pope Leo said the world urgently needs hope in the face of growing violence and instability. He encouraged the faithful to open their hearts to God's word through prayer, enabling them to understand the events of history and recognise God's guiding presence.

The Pope pointed to the Virgin Mary as a model of faith and obedience, noting that the Rosary helps believers see Jesus Christ as the Father's definitive word of peace. He stressed that God never abandons humanity, even when people lose their way.

Emphasising that peace is neither an illusion nor a self-serving pursuit, Pope Leo described it as a daily commitment rooted in justice and love. He said peace becomes possible when people listen to the cries of innocent children, distressed parents, prisoners, refugees and all those suffering because of conflict.

“Peace is always possible because it is a gift from God,” the Pope said, adding that Christ breaks down hostility and reconciles humanity through love.

He warned that distancing oneself from God often leads to indifference towards the suffering of others. Every return to God, he said, brings a responsibility to become a peacemaker through both prayer and action.

Calling for an end to violence, forced displacement and the pursuit of power, Pope Leo urged people to promote justice and truth. He also encouraged individuals to reject verbal and physical violence in daily life and on social media.

The Pope concluded by reminding the faithful that true peace begins with hearts shaped by love, reconciliation and wisdom. Entrusting this mission to the Blessed Virgin Mary, he prayed that Christians would respond to God's call not only in words but also through concrete actions for peace.

Pope Leo XIV: Peace Is Possible Even Amid Conflict, War and Violence

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