Vatican City: Pope Leo XIV has called on religions to work together for peace and strongly warned against using the name of God for military, political, or economic interests. Speaking to representatives of Muslim communities in Senegal along with Catholic leaders, Pope stressed that faith should unite people and protect human dignity rather than deepen divisions.
During the meeting at the Vatican, Pope described the gathering as an important sign of friendship and a shared commitment to building a peaceful and inclusive society. He praised Senegal for being a country known for hospitality, solidarity, and peaceful coexistence among Christians, Muslims, and followers of other faiths.
Pope said Senegal stands as an example to the world because people of different religions and ethnic backgrounds live together in harmony. He called this spirit of fraternity a treasure that must be protected carefully, not only for Senegal but also for humanity as a whole.
At the same time, Pope Leo expressed concern over the growing challenges facing Africa. He pointed to armed conflicts across the continent that continue to cause suffering, humanitarian crises, and deep inequalities. He also warned about the rise of violent extremism and the increasing number of migrants and refugees forced to flee their homes.
Pope further noted that hateful speech is damaging social unity and that many young people are losing important ethical and spiritual values. He said these realities are weakening families and communities.
In this difficult situation, Pope Leo said interreligious dialogue can play an important role in promoting peace and reducing tensions. He explained that cooperation among religious leaders can help prevent radicalization and encourage mutual respect among people.
According to the Pope, politics and diplomacy should make use of the moral strength that religions can offer in efforts toward reconciliation and peacebuilding. He stressed that the world today needs diplomacy and religious dialogue that are based on truth, justice, and peace.
Addressing Christians and Muslims together, the Pope reminded them that every human being is created by God and possesses a dignity that no government or authority has the right to take away.
He repeated his strong warning against manipulating religion for personal or political agendas. “We together assume our common responsibility,” the Pope said, “to reject every instrumentalization of the name of God for military, economic, or political gain.”
Recalling words he had spoken earlier in Bamenda, Cameroon, Pope Leo said, “Woe to those who manipulate religion and the very name of God for their own military, economic or political gain, dragging that which is sacred into darkness and filth.”
The Pope also urged religious communities to stand together against discrimination and persecution based on race, religion, or ethnic origin. He called for greater protection of minorities and all those who suffer because of violence and hatred.
Concluding his address, Pope Leo prayed that Christians and Muslims would continue to grow in understanding, respect, and fraternity. He encouraged them to choose dialogue instead of conflict and to welcome differences without fear.
Pope expressed hope that the joint commitment of religious communities toward peace, justice, and fraternity would bear lasting fruit and contribute to the good of all humanity.