What Happened
Pope Leo XIV used his first Palm Sunday homily to issue a forceful appeal for peace, calling on the faithful to reject violence and remember their shared humanity. Speaking before thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square, he urged: “Lay down your weapons, remember you are brothers!”
The American pope delivered the message during the Mass that marks the beginning of Holy Week for Catholics and commemorates Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem. He framed Christ as the “King of peace” and repeated that God rejects war.
A Homily Focused on Peace
In his remarks, Leo XIV said Jesus “did not arm himself, did not defend himself, did not wage any war.” He described Christ as revealing the gentle face of God, one that rejects violence and chooses the cross instead of self-preservation.
The pope also said that in Jesus’ final cry to the Father, one can hear the suffering of those who are discouraged, sick, alone, oppressed by violence, and victimized by war. He emphasized that God cannot be used to justify conflict.
Symbols and Easter Traditions
The square was decorated with olive trees brought for the occasion, reinforcing the message of peace. Leo XIV also quoted Italian bishop Tonino Bello in entrusting peace to Mary, praying that the sparks of war would fade, the suffering of the poor would end, and the tears of victims of violence would be dried.
The Palm Sunday celebration marks the start of Leo XIV’s first Holy Week since his election on May 8. It is one of the most important periods in the Catholic calendar, leading up to Easter.
What This Means
The pope’s remarks set a strong tone for the days ahead, with the Vatican preparing for key Holy Week observances. According to the article, Leo XIV will preside over the traditional Way of the Cross at the Colosseum in Rome and will return the Holy Thursday Mass to the historic Basilica of St. John Lateran.
That change differs from the approach taken by Pope Francis, who often celebrated Holy Thursday Mass in a prison or migrant center. Leo XIV’s Holy Week schedule suggests both continuity with tradition and a distinct style in how he will lead these rites.