Castel Gandolfo: Standing before a crowd gathered under shifting skies in the historic square of Castel Gandolfo, Pope Leo XIV made a heartfelt appeal for global peace and compassion. As he concluded the Sunday Angelus, the Pontiff urged the faithful to pray earnestly for those suffering the brutal consequences of war and violence, reminding them of the wounded in today’s world—echoing the Gospel's parable of the Good Samaritan, which he had preached on earlier during Mass at the local parish of Saint Thomas of Villanova.
In a touching moment of remembrance, Pope Leo also recalled the recent beatification of Blessed Licarion May, a Marist Brother martyred in 1909 during the Barcelona uprisings out of hatred for the faith. "He embraced his educational mission with unwavering passion and courage, even amid adversity,” the Pope said, expressing hope that Brother Licarion’s witness would continue to inspire educators and missionaries around the world.
The Pope expressed particular gratitude to youth workers, summer camp leaders, and educators dedicating their time to nurturing children and teenagers during the holiday months. He made special mention of the upcoming Giffoni Film Festival, calling it a “valuable initiative” that promotes cultural exchange and youthful creativity. This year’s edition, themed “Becoming Human,” begins July 17 and draws young participants from across the globe.
Pope Leo also warmly welcomed international pilgrims and groups attending the Angelus, including Polish participants of a liturgical summer academy, Spanish pilgrims celebrating 400 years of parish history, Augustinian nuns in formation, and a French youth choir.
Closing his address, the Pope turned to honor Italy’s Carabinieri cadets from the Velletri School, named after Venerable Salvo D’Acquisto. Commending their commitment to civil service, he led the crowd in applause for all who serve the nation with courage and integrity.
In this moment of reflection and thanksgiving, Pope Leo XIV's message rang clear: peace begins with compassion, and faith finds its truest expression in service, solidarity, and memory of the holy.