Vatican City: Pope Leo XIV has called for an end to the violence of war, praying that the suffering of mothers who have lost loved ones may awaken the consciences of those with the power to stop conflicts.
The Pope made the appeal while celebrating Mass at Campo Verano Cemetery in Rome on November 2, marking the Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed, commonly known as All Souls’ Day.
In his homily, Pope Leo reflected on the Christian belief that death does not end the relationship between the living and those who have died. Through faith in Christ, he said, the bond with the faithful departed is not destroyed but transformed.
Connecting the celebration with the Solemnity of All Saints on November 1, the Pope said the two occasions invite Christians to pray for those who have died and hope that they will share in the eternal life promised by God.
He recalled the biblical promise that the souls of the righteous are protected in God's hands and will be free from suffering. He also encouraged the faithful to pray that all those who have died may enter into the eternal communion of life with God.
Reflecting on the Gospel, Pope Leo described the Beatitudes as a reflection of Jesus' own life and the path he offers his disciples. He said they show the way towards a fulfilled life, both in the present and in eternity.
The Pope gave particular attention to the Beatitude that promises comfort to those who mourn. He said prayers should especially remember people who have recently lost loved ones, particularly those whose families have been torn apart by the senseless violence of war.
He expressed the hope that their tears would touch the consciences of those who have the authority to silence weapons and bring an end to violence.
Pope Leo also recalled the words of St. Francis of Assisi in the Canticle of the Creatures, which speaks of death as Sister Bodily Death. The prayer recognises that death comes to everyone while expressing hope for those who live according to God's will and remain faithful to Him.
Concluding his reflection, the Pope returned to the central message of All Souls’ Day, reminding the faithful that death does not destroy the bond between Christians and those who have gone before them. Through faith in Christ, that relationship continues in a transformed way.