Vatican City: Pope Leo XIV has expressed deep concern over the worsening migration crisis in the Spanish autonomous city of Ceuta, urging prayers for peaceful solutions and greater justice for those affected. Speaking after leading the Angelus prayer in St Peter's Square on Sunday, the Pope also renewed his appeal for an end to wars around the world and encouraged Catholics to take part in the spiritual tradition of the Pardon of Assisi.
Addressing pilgrims gathered in the Vatican, the Pope spoke in Spanish as he reflected on the difficult situation unfolding in Ceuta, a Spanish territory on the northern coast of Africa that shares a border with Morocco. The city has been facing an unprecedented migration emergency after tens of thousands of people attempted to cross into the enclave in recent days.
"I follow with concern the alarming situation in Ceuta," Pope Leo said. He entrusted the crisis to the care of Our Lady of Africa and prayed that God would help bring about "solutions of peace, stability and justice" for everyone affected.
The sudden arrival of large numbers of migrants has overwhelmed local reception centres and emergency services. Spanish authorities have responded by sending additional security personnel to manage the situation and restore order. The dangerous crossings have also resulted in a tragic loss of life. According to reports, at least 67 people have died during attempts to reach Ceuta, with many drowning at sea while others were killed in crushes as crowds tried to enter the territory.
The humanitarian crisis has drawn international attention as aid organisations and Church groups continue to provide assistance to migrants and families caught in the emergency. Local Church communities have also strengthened their efforts to offer shelter, food, pastoral care and support to those arriving in desperate conditions.
After speaking about Ceuta, Pope Leo broadened his appeal to include all people suffering because of armed conflicts across the world. He called on the faithful to continue praying for peace and asked that nations seek diplomatic solutions instead of violence.
"Let us continue to pray for peace, that wars may cease throughout the world and that diplomatic solutions to conflicts may be found," the Pope said.
He offered special prayers for those who suffer the most during conflicts, especially children, older people and the sick. He also remembered humanitarian workers and all those who dedicate themselves to helping victims of war, asking the Lord to comfort those who are suffering and bless everyone who brings hope, care and consolation to others.
The Pope concluded his Angelus address by recalling the celebration of the Pardon of Assisi, a cherished spiritual tradition observed on Aug. 1 and 2 each year. He invited Catholics to thank God for this special gift of mercy and to make use of the opportunity for spiritual renewal.
The Pardon of Assisi is a plenary indulgence linked to St Francis of Assisi. Catholics may receive the indulgence by going to the Sacrament of Reconciliation, participating in the Eucharist, visiting a parish or Franciscan church, reciting the Creed and the Lord's Prayer, and praying for the intentions of the Pope.
The tradition dates back to the year 1216. According to Franciscan history, St Francis experienced a vision of Jesus Christ, the Virgin Mary and angels in the small Porziuncola chapel that he had restored near Assisi. When Christ invited him to ask for a grace for the salvation of souls, St Francis requested that a plenary indulgence be granted to everyone who visited the chapel with sincere repentance. In later centuries, the privilege was extended to Catholics who visit any parish or Franciscan church during the annual observance.
Through his Angelus message, Pope Leo connected the suffering of migrants, the pain caused by wars and the Christian call to mercy, encouraging the faithful to pray, work for peace and place their trust in God's compassion for all people.