Vatican City: At the conclusion of World Mission Sunday Mass in St. Peter’s Square, Pope Leo XIV issued a heartfelt appeal for peace in regions torn apart by war, with a special focus on Myanmar, Ukraine, and the Holy Land. The Holy Father called on global leaders and parties to conflicts to pursue dialogue and reconciliation, emphasizing the urgent need to replace instruments of war with the tools of peace.
Turning attention to Myanmar, where violent clashes have persisted since May 2021, Pope Leo described the situation as “distressing” and condemned the ongoing armed confrontations and aerial bombardments targeting civilians and vital infrastructure. He expressed solidarity with all those suffering from the consequences of violence, hunger, and displacement. “I renew my heartfelt appeal for an immediate and effective ceasefire,” the Pope said. “May the instruments of war give way to those of peace through inclusive and constructive dialogue.”
The Pope also invoked prayers for other regions plagued by conflict, including the Holy Land and Ukraine, urging God to grant world leaders the wisdom, perseverance, and courage to pursue just and lasting peace. His message underscored the universal responsibility of nations and individuals alike to work toward harmony, justice, and protection of human life.
In addition to his peace appeal, Pope Leo highlighted the significance of World Mission Sunday, calling on Christians to embrace the Church’s missionary vocation. He praised missionaries around the world who leave behind their homes to share the Gospel in places where it is not yet known, describing them as “missionaries of hope among the nations.” He prayed for divine blessings on their efforts, emphasizing the transformative role of faith in fostering solidarity, compassion, and peace.
Pope Leo’s address was a sobering reminder of the suffering endured in conflict zones, coupled with a hopeful call to action for both prayer and tangible steps toward reconciliation. His words resonated as a moral appeal to the international community to prioritize dialogue and humanitarian efforts over violence and division.