Vatican City: Pope Leo XIV presided over Palm Sunday Mass in St Peter’s Square and delivered a strong message on peace, saying that Jesus does not listen to the prayers of those who promote war.
During the celebration of the Lord’s Passion, Pope reflected on Jesus as the King of Peace, who remained calm and loving even in the face of violence and suffering. He said that as Jesus walked the way of the cross, he chose meekness instead of anger and offered himself out of love for humanity.
Pope explained that Jesus came to bring life and light into the world, even as darkness surrounded him. He said Jesus wanted to draw all people closer to God and remove the barriers that divide humanity.
Referring to moments from the Passion, Pope noted that Jesus rejected violence when he told his disciple to put away his sword after striking a servant. He also pointed out that Jesus did not defend himself during his crucifixion but accepted suffering with love.
Quoting the prophet Isaiah, Pope warned that God does not accept prayers from those whose hands are filled with violence. He said Jesus cannot be used to justify war and clearly rejects it.
Pope also spoke about the suffering in today’s world, saying many people continue to cry out in pain because of war and injustice. He called on people to remember that all are brothers and sisters and urged them to lay down their weapons.
In his conclusion, he recalled the words of Tonino Bello, reflecting on hope through the example of the Virgin Mary at the foot of the cross. He expressed hope that suffering, injustice and war will come to an end and that the tears of victims will soon be wiped away.