Pope Leo XIV has delivered a strong message against war and violence as he opened a global gathering of Catholic cardinals at the Vatican, urging world leaders to resolve conflicts through dialogue and human reason rather than force.
The two-day closed-door assembly, known as a consistory, began on Friday and brings together cardinals from around the world to discuss key issues affecting the Catholic Church and the global community.
Pope Calls for Peaceful Resolution of Conflicts
Speaking during a Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica, Pope Leo emphasized the importance of peace and diplomacy in addressing international disputes.
The pontiff warned that ongoing conflicts and geopolitical tensions continue to inflict suffering on people across the world.
“International tensions and conflicts seriously wound the human family,” the Pope said during his homily.
He further stressed that war can never be justified as a solution to disputes.
“War is never worthy of humanity, and it is never blessed by God,” he stated.
The Pope added that despite advances in military technology, humanity possesses the intelligence and free will needed to settle disagreements peacefully.
Cardinals Gather to Discuss Global Church Challenges
The Vatican meeting is expected to focus on a range of issues affecting the Catholic Church worldwide, including governance, evangelization, social challenges, and the Church’s role in promoting peace and unity.
The gathering will feature prayers, workshops, and plenary sessions aimed at strengthening collaboration among Church leaders.
This marks the second time Pope Leo XIV has convened the world’s cardinals since his election in May 2025.
Vatican Pursues More Collaborative Leadership
Observers say the regular consultations reflect Pope Leo’s commitment to a more collegial style of leadership, encouraging greater participation from senior Church officials in decision-making processes.
The Pope has increasingly used global meetings of cardinals as a platform for consultation and dialogue on matters affecting the Church and wider society.
Cardinals Welcome Opportunity for Unity
Cardinal Jean-Paul Vesco, Archbishop of Algiers, welcomed the initiative and said the gathering would help strengthen relationships among Church leaders from different regions.
According to him, the meetings provide an opportunity for cardinals to better understand one another and foster greater unity within the global Catholic Church.
He noted that regular engagement among cardinals could contribute to stronger collaboration and a shared vision for addressing contemporary challenges facing the Church.
Global Attention on Pope’s Anti-War Message
Pope Leo’s remarks come at a time of heightened international tensions and ongoing conflicts in several parts of the world.
His repeated calls for peace and diplomacy have attracted global attention and reinforced the Vatican’s long-standing position in support of dialogue, reconciliation, and non-violent conflict resolution.
The outcome of the Vatican gathering is expected to shape future discussions on Church governance and its engagement with major global issues.