During his Easter address on Sunday, Pope Leo delivered a passionate plea to world leaders from Vatican City, calling for an immediate end to global conflicts and the abandonment of all pursuits of power and territorial expansion.
Speaking to thousands of faithful assembled in St. Peter’s Square, the pontiff expressed concern that society is becoming desensitized to violence, stating that people “are growing accustomed to violence, resigning ourselves to it, and becoming indifferent.”
“Let those who have weapons lay them down!” declared the first American pope. “Let those who have the power to unleash wars choose peace!”
The Easter address, formally called the “Urbi et Orbi” blessing meaning “to the city and the world,” was notably concise and pointed in its delivery. Pope Leo avoided naming specific global conflicts during his remarks.
Drawing from the Easter story of Christ’s resurrection three days following his crucifixion, the pope emphasized that Jesus demonstrated complete nonviolence by not resisting his execution.
“On this day of celebration, let us abandon every desire for conflict, domination, and power, and implore the Lord to grant his peace to a world ravaged by wars,” Pope Leo declared.
The pontiff, recognized for his deliberate choice of words, has intensified his condemnation of worldwide violence in recent weeks, particularly increasing his opposition to the Iran war.
During Saturday evening’s Easter vigil service, he encouraged believers not to become overwhelmed by the magnitude of global conflicts but instead to actively pursue peace.
Earlier this week on Tuesday, Pope Leo made an uncommon direct appeal to U.S. President Donald Trump, requesting that he seek an “off-ramp” to conclude the Iran war.
From the balcony overlooking St. Peter’s Square, which was adorned with thousands of vibrant flowers for the Easter celebration, Pope Leo extended holiday greetings in ten different languages, including Latin, Arabic, and Chinese.
The pope also revealed plans to return to the Basilica on April 11 to conduct a special prayer service dedicated to peace.
