Pope Leo XIV Calls for Global Rejection of Violence in 2026 Message

Pope Leo XIV opened 2026 with a powerful and timely appeal for peace, urging the world to reject violence and begin the year with a renewed commitment to reconciliation and unity.

Speaking before a crowd of over 40,000 gathered in St. Peter’s Square on New Year’s Day, the pope delivered his first Angelus address of the year, coinciding with the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God, and the World Day of Peace, a tradition established in 1968 by Pope St. Paul VI.

“Let us start today to build a year of peace,” Pope Leo said, “disarming our hearts and refraining from every form of violence.”

The pope's message comes at a time when global conflict, civil unrest, and political polarization continue to define much of the international landscape. His words served not only as a spiritual reflection, but a direct call to action emphasizing peace as a personal responsibility, not merely a political ideal.

Key highlights from Pope Leo’s address:

• Peace is “unarmed and disarming,” the pope said, describing it as a gift from God that requires individual conversion and daily choices rooted in compassion and humility.

• He warned against the temptation to impose peace “by force,” instead calling for true peace built through dialogue and moral conviction.

• The pope praised international efforts for peace, including recent marches in Catania, Italy, and work done by the Community of Sant’Egidio, known for global peace initiatives.

“This peace,” he continued, “comes from God; it is a gift of his unconditional love, and it is entrusted to our responsibility.”

Pope Leo also acknowledged the presence of students and teachers from Richland, New Jersey, who had traveled to witness the New Year’s Day address a subtle reminder of the importance of youth engagement in global healing.

Tying the call to peace to a deeper spiritual tradition, the pope referenced the legacy of St. Francis of Assisi, marking the 800th anniversary of his death. Francis, known worldwide for his dedication to humility and peace, was invoked as a model for a world desperately in need of healing.

He concluded the address with the saint’s ancient blessing:

“The Lord bless you and keep you;
The Lord make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you;
The Lord lift His countenance upon you and give you peace.”

Entrusting the new year to Mary, Mother of God, Pope Leo XIV closed by asking that she “guide humanity on its journey” through the challenges and hopes of 2026.

In a world starved for truth, stability, and grace, the pope’s message is more than ceremonial it’s a challenge to individuals, communities, and nations to lead with courage, conviction, and peace.

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