Pope Leo XIV Urges Focolare to Counter Violence with Unity and Peace

Vatican City, March 22, 2026: Pope Leo XIV has called on members of the Focolare Movement to act as a “counterweight” to growing violence and hatred by promoting unity, dialogue and peace across the world.

Addressing participants of the Movement’s General Assembly at the Vatican on March 21, the Pope stressed the urgent need for unity in a time marked by conflict and division. He warned that the “poison of division and conflict” continues to harm hearts and social relationships, urging members to respond with Gospel values of forgiveness, dialogue and peace.

The Pope encouraged the Focolare Movement—an international organisation founded by Chiara Lubich in 1943 and present in over 140 countries—to remain a strong witness of unity both within its structures and in wider society. He emphasised that its charism, centred on unity among people, continues to hold relevance in today’s fractured world.

Highlighting their global role, Pope Leo XIV said members are called to be a “barrier against the many sowers of hatred” who risk leading humanity towards violence and division. He urged them to foster a spirit that inspires evangelisation and supports social, cultural and interreligious dialogue.

The Pope also underscored the importance of transparency and shared responsibility within the Movement’s leadership. He noted that maintaining credibility requires openness, while also encouraging members to discern together which practices are essential to their mission and which should be reconsidered.

Respect for individual freedom and conscience, he said, remains central to authentic unity. He cautioned that unity should not be mistaken for uniformity, as this could undermine personal conviction and freedom. Instead, he called for a community life rooted in mutual charity, respect and humility.

Pope Leo XIV concluded by expressing gratitude for the “great spiritual family” that has grown from the Movement, recognising its contributions to spreading the Gospel and fostering holiness across the world.

Pope Leo XIV Urges Focolare to Counter Violence with Unity and Peace

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