Vatican City: In a poignant ceremony held within the hallowed walls of the Sistine Chapel, Pope Leo XIV honored Blessed Cardinal Iuliu Hossu, extolling him as a "prophet of hope" and a fearless defender of human dignity. The commemoration marked five years since Pope Francis' historic visit to Romania and the beatification of seven martyred Greek-Catholic bishops, among them the revered Hossu.

Remembering the late bishop of Cluj-Gherla, Pope Leo underscored Hossu’s unwavering commitment to justice during World War II and his steadfast faith under the shadow of Communist oppression. Describing him as a “symbol of interfaith solidarity and forgiveness,” the Pope urged the faithful to emulate Hossu’s courageous witness, which transcended religious and ethnic divisions.

The gathering—attended by Greek-Catholic clergy, Romanian civil dignitaries, and Jewish community leaders including Hon. Silviu Vexler—also celebrated the enduring legacy of Hossu’s actions, particularly his courageous efforts to shield Jews during the Nazi occupation of Northern Transylvania from 1940 to 1944.

“Today, in spirit, he enters this chapel,” declared the Pope, recalling that Hossu was named cardinal in pectore by Saint Paul VI in 1969 while still incarcerated under Romania’s Communist regime. His quiet heroism and unswerving loyalty to the Church of Rome, even in chains, left an indelible mark on the conscience of the Church.

Pope Leo drew attention to the ongoing campaign to recognize Cardinal Hossu as “Righteous Among the Nations,” acknowledging the immense personal risk he undertook to oppose Jewish deportations. Citing a 1944 pastoral letter, the Pope echoed Hossu’s plea to his flock:

“Our appeal goes out to you all… not merely to think kindly of the Jews, but to act courageously on their behalf, knowing that no greater act of Christian and Romanian charity exists today.”

The testimony of former Chief Rabbi Moshe Carmilly-Weinberger, who credited Hossu with saving thousands of lives, was cited as further evidence of the bishop’s moral heroism.

Describing Hossu as a “man of dialogue and a harbinger of light,” Pope Leo recalled the 2019 beatification by Pope Francis, affirming Hossu’s role as both martyr and moral exemplar. The Pope highlighted one of Hossu’s most powerful reflections: “God has sent us into this darkness of suffering to forgive, and to pray for the conversion of all.”

“These words,” Pope Leo remarked, “capture the essence of martyrdom—a faith rooted not in hatred, but in mercy, capable of turning affliction into love.”

Drawing a connection between Hossu’s example and Nostra Aetate—the Second Vatican Council’s groundbreaking document on interreligious dialogue—Pope Leo praised Hossu as a timeless model of moral fortitude, sacrifice, and compassionate leadership.

“In defending Romania’s Jews,” the Pope said, “he became a living testament to freedom, bravery, and spiritual generosity, even at the cost of his life.”

He called upon Christians everywhere to embrace Hossu’s episcopal motto, "Our Faith is Our Life," as a guide in today’s troubled world. Pope Leo issued a passionate appeal against all forms of violence, especially against the weak and defenseless, such as children and families.

“Let us reject all violence,” he declared, “but especially the violence that targets the innocent and voiceless.”

The ceremony concluded with a papal blessing and a prayer that Cardinal Hossu’s luminous example would continue to inspire, offering moral clarity and hope in an age yearning for both.