Pope Leo XIV has issued a powerful call for peace, condemning the use of nuclear deterrence and the manipulation of religious language for political purposes. In his first peace message, delivered on December 31, 2023, the Pope emphasized that peace is not only achievable but also necessary, urging followers of all faiths to reject violence in the name of religion.
During an emotional press conference at the Vatican, Leo reflected on his inaugural address as pope, delivered on May 8, 2023, when he proclaimed, “Peace be with you.” He expressed deep concern over the increasing normalization of fear and darkness in society, stressing that believers should not succumb to these negative influences.
Concerns Over Military Advancements
The Pope criticized the growing trend of private economic interests driving nations towards technological military advancements, particularly those powered by artificial intelligence. He characterized this shift as a form of “irrationality” that exacerbates military deterrence strategies.
Leo urged all religious adherents to be vigilant against the temptation to weaponize faith and language for violent ends. He remarked, “Unfortunately, it has become increasingly common to drag the language of faith into political battles, to bless nationalism, and to justify violence and armed struggle in the name of religion.”
In a notable effort to address the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, the Vatican translated the peace message into both Russian and Ukrainian, underscoring its commitment to global peace.
Personal Accounts of Pain and Forgiveness
The press conference also featured poignant testimonies from individuals who have experienced the horrors of war and political violence. Maria Agnese Moro, whose father, former Italian Premier Aldo Moro, was kidnapped and murdered by the Red Brigades in 1978, recounted her journey toward restorative justice.
Moro described her experience of engaging in dialogue with members of the Red Brigades, highlighting the importance of mutual recognition in healing. “Every word I say hurts them, but it recognizes their humanity,” she stated. “True listening is a mutual recognition of humanity.”
In a similar vein, Rev Pero Miličević, a Croatian Catholic priest, shared his harrowing experience during the Bosnian War when a Muslim unit attacked his village, resulting in the deaths of 39 individuals, including family members. He emphasized that his family’s survival was rooted in their Catholic faith and the peace that comes from forgiveness.
Miličević expressed, “Precisely that education in faith in God helped us to overcome the horrors of what we witnessed.” His testimony reinforced the Pope’s message about the transformative power of faith in overcoming violence and despair.
Pope Leo XIV’s peace message serves as a stark reminder of the need for dialogue, understanding, and compassion in a world increasingly defined by division and conflict.
