Pope Leo XIV began the year 2026 with a heartfelt appeal for peace, emphasizing the need for healing in countries “bloodied by conflict.” During a New Year’s Day Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica, the Pope highlighted the struggles faced by families affected by violence during his address to a congregation filled with pilgrims and tourists.
January 1 marks the church’s World Day of Peace, and the Pope used this occasion to deliver a special prayer from his studio overlooking the bustling piazza. “Let us all pray together for peace: first, among nations bloodied by conflict and suffering, but also within our homes, in families wounded by violence or pain,” he stated, calling for unity and understanding.
In his recent Christmas homily, Leo condemned the “rubble and open wounds” left by ongoing wars and specifically mentioned the dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza. His Christmas blessing also urged both Russia and Ukraine to muster the “courage” necessary for direct negotiations to resolve their ongoing conflict.
Upcoming Events for the Pontiff
Following a busy Christmas season, Pope Leo XIV will enjoy a brief period of rest before celebrating the church’s Epiphany holiday on January 6. This event will also mark the official conclusion of the 2025 Holy Year, a significant celebration that attracted millions of pilgrims to Rome.
Immediately after the Epiphany, the Pope is scheduled to preside over a two-day meeting of the entire College of Cardinals. This gathering will include not only the cardinals who elected him but also those over the age of 80 who did not participate in the conclave but remain integral to the college. This practice of convening cardinals for counsel is a tradition that Pope Leo XIV is reviving, which had been largely set aside by his predecessor, Pope Francis.
As the first American pontiff in history, elected by his fellow cardinals in May at a Vatican conclave, Pope Leo XIV continues to navigate the complexities of leading the 1.4 billion strong Catholic Church while addressing pressing global issues. His calls for peace and unity resonate deeply as the world enters another year marked by challenges and conflict.
