During a meeting with Ukrainian Greek Catholic pilgrims in the Vatican, Pope Leo XIV expressed his sorrow for the “martyred” Ukraine and the victims of the ongoing war, instigated by Russia’s invasion in 2022, and annexation of Crimea in 2014. The Pope emphasized the importance of faith during these difficult times and has consistently expressed support for Ukraine, even appealing to Russian President Vladimir Putin to end the conflict. This stance marks a notable shift from his predecessor, with Ukrainian officials appreciating his solidarity. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has publicly thanked the Pope for his prayers and compassion, calling for an end to the aggression and a return of those held captive.
Read More
Pope Leo XIV took to social media platform X to express his disapproval of world leaders’ disregard for international law, a week after the U.S. bombed Iranian nuclear facilities and following a fragile ceasefire. The Pope lamented the perceived dominance of power over the rule of law, deeming it shameful. The post sparked criticism from users who urged him to focus on religious teachings rather than political commentary. This is not the first time he has voiced his opinions regarding foreign affairs, as he has previously called for peace in the Middle East.
Read More
In a message read at a Lima play depicting the Sodalitium Christianae Vitae abuse scandal, Pope Leo XIV declared zero tolerance for all forms of abuse within the Catholic Church, including sexual, spiritual, and abuse of authority. He emphasized the need for transparent processes and active vigilance to cultivate a culture of prevention, highlighting the crucial role of journalists in exposing such wrongdoing. The Pope’s message specifically praised investigative journalist Paola Ugaz and recognized the Sodalitium’s suppression, a process he oversaw while serving as a Vatican official. His statement also underscored the importance of protecting journalists and upholding press freedom.
Read More
Pope Leo XIV condemned President Trump’s bombing of Iranian nuclear facilities, stating that war is not a solution and urging international cooperation for peace. He emphasized the moral responsibility of all nations to prevent further conflict, highlighting the universal impact of violence on human dignity. This criticism follows previous condemnations of Trump and Vice President Vance’s immigration policies and Trump’s attacks on the press. The conflict marks the first major global crisis since Leo’s papacy began, continuing his pattern of advocating for diplomacy over military action.
Read More
In his first public address on the widespread clerical abuse scandal, Pope Leo XIV declared zero tolerance for any form of abuse within the Catholic Church, encompassing power, authority, conscience, spirituality, and sexual misconduct. He simultaneously championed the vital role of a free press, contrasting his stance with that of some bishops who have criticized media coverage of the scandal. The Pope’s statement followed concerns raised by abuse survivors regarding his past actions, concerns the Vatican has addressed. Leo lauded the investigative journalism exposing abuse, emphasizing the Church’s commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals and urging journalists to continue their crucial work.
Read More
This Saturday, Americans face a choice: attend Donald Trump’s military parade and birthday celebration in Washington D.C., or Pope Leo XIV’s counter-programming event in Chicago. The Pope’s message, aimed at young people, will be broadcast simultaneously and criticizes nationalist movements, contrasting sharply with Trump’s display of military might. The event in Chicago, almost entirely sold out, underscores the public’s divided response. Pope Leo’s past criticisms of the Trump administration’s policies, particularly regarding immigration, further highlight the ideological clash.
Read More
During a Pentecost mass in St. Peter’s Square, Pope Leo condemned the rise of nationalist movements and their exclusionary ideologies, urging for the dismantling of walls and the dispelling of hatred between peoples. He stressed the Church’s imperative to transcend prejudice and overcome barriers of class and race, promoting unity and understanding. The Pope’s message emphasized the importance of overcoming fear of those who are different, echoing previous papal criticism of nationalist rhetoric and policies. His remarks follow a long history of papal condemnation of exclusionary nationalism, continuing a tradition of outspoken opposition from his predecessor, Pope Francis.
Read More
In a symbolic gesture, Pope Leo XIV formally assumed the role of Bishop of Rome, a title held alongside others. Meeting with Rome’s mayor, the Pope declared himself a Roman, emphasizing his pastoral responsibility to the city’s people. While this declaration is primarily symbolic, it underscores his connection to Rome despite his American origins and past in Peru. The day-to-day duties of the Bishopric, however, will be delegated to a vicar.
Read More
In his first general audience, Pope Leo XIV issued a plea for an immediate end to the Gaza conflict and for unimpeded humanitarian aid delivery. He described the situation in Gaza as “increasingly worrying and painful,” noting the dire consequences for civilians, including the threat of famine. Despite Israel’s claim of increased aid shipments, UN and Church officials reported minimal aid reaching those in need. The Pope’s appeal follows the recent death of Pope Francis and echoes his predecessor’s commitment to peace.
Read More
Following his inaugural mass, Pope Leo XIV held extensive meetings with world leaders including Ukrainian President Zelensky and Peruvian President Boluarte, but only briefly greeted Vice President JD Vance. This limited interaction followed a sermon subtly criticizing Vance and the Trump administration’s treatment of migrants and seizure of foreign resources. The snub builds upon previous criticisms of Vance’s immigration policies by both Pope Francis and Pope Leo (then Father Prevost), who publicly opposed Vance’s stances. Despite past tensions and a brief meeting with Pope Francis before his death, Vance’s attempts at reconciliation with Catholic leadership appear to have yielded limited success.
Read More
John Q. Hosedrinker