At his Wednesday General Audience, Pope Francis once again made a heartfelt appeal for peace, urging the faithful to pray and take action to support efforts toward reconciliation. Setting aside his prepared remarks to Italian-speaking pilgrims, he spoke spontaneously about the pressing need for peace in war-torn regions around the world.
Pope reflected on the suffering caused by conflicts and reminded those present of the true purpose of human life. "We are not born to kill," he said. "We are born to help people grow. May we find pathways of peace." His words emphasized the importance of unity and the responsibility everyone shares in fostering harmony.
Reiterating his constant concern for Ukraine, Pope lamented the ongoing suffering of the country, which he has frequently mentioned in his appeals. He also turned attention to other conflict zones, naming Palestine, Israel, Myanmar, North Kivu, and South Sudan as regions in desperate need of peace.
Encouraging everyone to include this intention in their daily prayers, Pope Francis urged believers to actively seek peace through both spiritual and practical means. "Please, pray for peace," he implored. "Do penance for peace."
His words served as a strong reminder that the pursuit of peace is not only a diplomatic endeavor but also a personal and communal commitment, rooted in faith and the desire for a better world.