Pope Leo XIV delivered a powerful message on January 1, 2024, urging global leaders and believers of all faiths to reject the temptations of violence and the misuse of religion in political conflicts. Speaking during his inaugural peace message, he condemned the “irrationality” of nuclear deterrence and the increasing trend of weaponizing faith in contemporary discourse.
In his address, presented at a press conference in Vatican City, the Pope reflected on his first words as Pope, spoken from St. Peter’s Basilica on May 8, 2023: “Peace be with you.” He emphasized that achieving peace is not only possible but essential for humanity.
The Pope criticized how private economic interests drive nations toward military advancements, particularly those involving artificial intelligence. He highlighted the inherent dangers of relying on fear as a means of deterrence, stating, “Unfortunately, it has become increasingly common to drag the language of faith into political battles.” He called on individuals from all religions to resist the urge to use faith as justification for violence.
Eyewitness Accounts of Violence
To underscore the impact of war and political violence, the Vatican conference featured poignant testimonies from two individuals who experienced profound loss. Maria Agnese Moro recounted her father’s kidnapping and murder by the Red Brigades in 1978. She described a restorative justice meeting she attended fifteen years ago with former members of the group. “Every word I say hurts them, but it recognizes their humanity,” she explained. “True listening is a mutual recognition of humanity.”
The Rev Pero Miličević, a Croatian Catholic priest, shared his harrowing experience during the Bosnian war in 1993. He spoke of an attack on his village that resulted in the deaths of 39 people, including family members. He reflected on how his Catholic faith helped him and his family endure the pain of their loss, stating, “Precisely that education in faith in God helped us to overcome the horrors of what we witnessed.”
The Pope’s message was translated into multiple languages, including Russian and Ukrainian, in light of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. His call for peace and unity resonated deeply against the backdrop of global unrest and violence.
As the world marks the annual day of peace established by the Catholic Church, Pope Leo XIV’s statements serve as a reminder of the urgent need for dialogue and understanding in a world increasingly fraught with division and conflict.
