Pope Leo XIV has called for a complete rejection of war and violence, urging Christians and world leaders alike to embrace peace as the global Church marks Palm Sunday amid growing international tensions.
In his Palm Sunday homily published by the Holy See on Sunday, the Pope reflected on the Passion of Jesus Christ, presenting Him as the “King of Peace” whose response to betrayal, suffering, and imminent death remained rooted in humility, love, and non-violence.
The pontiff invited Christians worldwide to spiritually accompany Christ along the Way of the Cross, contemplating his sacrifice for humanity and the enduring message of peace at the heart of the Easter season.
“We turn our gaze to Jesus, who reveals himself as King of Peace, even as war surrounds him,” the Pope said. “He remains steadfast in meekness, while others stir up violence. He offers himself to embrace humanity, even as others raise swords and clubs.”
His message comes as this year’s Palm Sunday is being observed against the backdrop of escalating tensions in the Middle East, where conflict has continued to fuel global uncertainty and intensify concerns over energy supply and economic stability.
Jesus as the King of Peace
Reflecting on Christ’s entry into Jerusalem, Pope Leo XIV noted that Jesus entered the city not as a conqueror mounted on a war horse, but humbly riding on a donkey — fulfilling biblical prophecy and symbolising peace rather than power.
He referenced the prophetic words of Zechariah, describing the Messiah as one who would “command peace to the nations” by cutting off instruments of war.
The Pope also recalled the moment when one of Jesus’ disciples attempted to defend him with a sword during his arrest, only to be rebuked immediately.
“Put your sword back into its place, for all who take the sword will perish by the sword,” he quoted from the Gospel of Matthew.
According to the pontiff, Christ’s refusal to retaliate revealed “the gentle face of God,” one that rejects violence in every form and embraces sacrifice over confrontation.
No War in the Name of Christ
In one of the strongest parts of his message, Pope Leo XIV declared that no one can invoke the name of Jesus to justify armed conflict.
“This is our God: Jesus, King of Peace, who rejects war, whom no one can use to justify war,” he said.
He warned that prayers offered by those engaged in violence stand in contradiction to divine justice, quoting the prophet Isaiah: “Even though you make many prayers, I will not listen: your hands are full of blood.”
A Call for Compassion in a Wounded World
The Pope said the suffering of Christ on the cross remains deeply connected to the pain of humanity today.
He urged the faithful to see in Christ’s wounds the suffering of victims of war, oppression, loneliness, illness, and injustice.
“As we set our gaze upon him who was crucified for us, we can see a crucified humanity,” he said. “In his wounds, we see the hurts of so many women and men today.”
He added that Christ’s cry from the cross continues to echo in today’s troubled world as a call for mercy, reconciliation, and brotherhood.
“Lay down your weapons. Remember that you are brothers and sisters,” the Pope urged.
His Palm Sunday message sets a solemn tone for Holy Week, reinforcing the Church’s appeal for peace at a time when conflict continues to shape global realities.
