Pope Francis Urges Global Pause in Conflict, Highlights Crisis Zones
In an impassioned plea following the Angelus prayer, Pope Francis called for an immediate cessation of hostilities worldwide and a redoubled effort towards peace and dialogue. He specifically singled out Ukraine, Gaza, Israel, Myanmar, and the North Kivu region.
"Brothers and sisters, war destroys, always destroys. War is always a defeat!" the Pope asserted, recalling a film he watched on Italian Catholic TV network RAI that depicted war’s devastation. He marked the World Peace Day by urging wealthy nations to cancel debts for the poorest countries, a theme echoed in the current Jubilee Year.
Francis praised initiatives aiming to resolve conflicts through dialogue and negotiation, bestowing a special blessing on Italy’s president for mentioning him in his address to the nation. He called on countries with Christian traditions to set a positive example by reducing or forgiving debts of the least developed nations.
The Pope emphasized that forgiving debts is a sign of hope and a practical way to build peace. "We are called to forgive one another’s injuries in the same way that God forgives us," he said.
As the world continues to grapple with numerous conflicts, Pope Francis’ message serves as a reminder that peaceful coexistence and understanding are not only desirable but achievable goals.
Sources:
- Vatican Radio
- CNA – Catholic News Agency
- Pope Francis’ Angelus address, September 20, 2021
