Naples: Pope Leo XIV concluded his pastoral visit to Naples with a strong appeal for the city to become a “workshop of peace,” calling on people to build a society rooted in justice, solidarity, and care for one another.
The visit to Naples and nearby Pompeii marked the first anniversary of his pontificate. Thousands of faithful gathered at the historic Piazza del Plebiscito to welcome Pope at the end of a long day of prayer, meetings, and public events. According to Vatican estimates, around 50,000 people filled the square to see and listen to him.
Addressing civil authorities, Church leaders, and the faithful, the Pope thanked the people of Naples for their warm welcome, comparing it to the embrace of Saint Peter’s Square in the Vatican. He then turned his attention to the realities faced by the city, speaking openly about both its beauty and its struggles.
Reflecting on the Gospel story of the disciples on the road to Emmaus, Pope Leo XIV described Naples as a city carrying deep wounds while also holding extraordinary hope and beauty. He said the voices rising from the city include not only joy and culture, but also poverty, fear, loneliness, and uncertainty.
Pope spoke about the growing inequalities affecting many families. Although tourism in Naples continues to increase, he noted that the economic benefits are not reaching everyone equally. He pointed to unemployment, school dropouts, lack of public services, and the influence of organised crime as serious challenges that continue to affect many communities.
He stressed the importance of stronger public institutions that can restore trust, provide security, and create opportunities for young people and families. At the same time, he praised ordinary citizens who quietly work each day for justice, dignity, and truth.
Calling them “everyday heroes,” Pope said their efforts should not remain isolated. Instead, he encouraged the creation of a wider “network of good” capable of strengthening the social fabric of the city.
Pope Leo XIV also highlighted the role of the Church in promoting unity and cooperation. He praised ongoing educational initiatives involving civil institutions, parishes, and local organisations, saying that the future of Naples depends on deeper collaboration between all parts of society.
Peace remained the central message of his address. Pope said Naples should not simply become a beautiful city admired by tourists, but a true place of reconciliation and hope where peace is built through daily actions, relationships, education, and justice.
“There is no peace without justice, and justice is not complete without charity,” he said.
Pope pointed to several signs of hope already visible in the city, including centres supporting struggling families, shelters welcoming vulnerable people, and projects helping migrants and refugees. He praised Naples for its long tradition of hospitality and said welcoming people in need should be seen not as a burden, but as an opportunity for encounter and mutual enrichment.
Young people also occupied an important place in his speech. Pope Leo XIV said the youth of Naples are not simply the future of the city, but active builders of renewal today. Through parish work, cultural activities, charitable service, and community projects, many young people are already helping create a more united and hopeful society.
At the conclusion of the gathering, the Pope entrusted the people of Naples to the protection of the Virgin Mary and the intercession of the city’s patron saint, Saint Januarius, also known as San Gennaro.
He encouraged the people to continue walking together with courage, faith, and hope as they work to build a more peaceful and just future for the city.