Pope Leo XIII, the first pope from the United States, delivered a political message just a month after his inauguration.
On the 8th (local time), Pope Leo XIII presided over a Pentecost Mass in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, emphasizing that "there can be no prejudice where love exists" and that "there is no place for divisive zones separating neighbors and us, or the exclusive mindset revealed in political nationalism."
The pope did not mention specific countries or political leaders directly. However, his remarks are interpreted as targeting the current political situation in the United States.
The pope prayed to "tear down the walls and barriers of indifference and hatred" to the thousands of congregants gathered there.
He also expressed concerns about conflicts around the world. The pope mentioned the "wars afflicting our planet" and requested the Holy Spirit for "a gift of peace."
Leo XIII said, "Only a peaceful heart can spread peace in homes, society, and international relations," adding that he hopes for reconciliation and dialogue in all areas of the world where conflicts are occurring.
Since his papal inauguration, Pope Leo XIII has prioritized peace as a core value. In his first official message, he stated that "peace be with you all," setting the importance of peace as a cornerstone of his papacy.
He also continually called for genuine and just peace in Ukraine and spoke about a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip.
On this day, Leo XIII also quoted remarks from the past Francis pope.
On the 4th of May 2023, during Pentecost, Pope Francis said, "We are all in consolidation with one another, yet severed from each other, paralyzed by indifference, and overwhelmed by loneliness."