Pope Leo XIV delivered a strict anti-war sermon during a prayer service in the Basilica “St. Peter“.
He also delivered a prayer for peace on April 5, the Catholic holiday of Easter.
“In the kingdom of God there is no sword, no drones, no revenge, no unjust profit. It is a barrier to the madness of omnipotence, which is becoming more and more aggressive around us. Even the holy name of God is mixed with death, but those who pray do not kill or threaten death,” the pope said.
“Death is the fate of those who turn away from God, turning themselves and their power into a mute, blind and deaf idol. Enough with self-worship and money! Enough with the display of power! Enough with war!” the pope continued.
He pointed out that the responsibility “belongs to the rulers and the madness of omnipotence” when peoples cry out for peace.
Observers have noted that the papal sermons have contained “direct references” to events in the Middle East and criticism of the US administration.