St. Maria Goretti Parish

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- Peace is built on respect for all people, Pope Leo XIV said after praying the Angelus with visitors gathered in St. Peter's Square Jan. 25.

The pope called for prayers for peace "in Ukraine, in the Middle East and in every region where, unfortunately, there is fighting going on for interests that are not those of the people."

"Peace is built on respect for peoples!" he said.

Greeting young people from Catholic Action who organized the annual "Caravan of Peace," the pope thanked them for helping "us adults to look at the world from another perspective: that of cooperation between people and among diverse peoples."

"Be peacemakers at home, at school, in sports, everywhere," he told the young people. "Never be violent, neither with words nor with gestures. Never!  Evil can only be overcome with good."

Speaking specifically about Ukraine, Pope Leo lamented the "continuous attacks" against the nation, which have left "entire populations exposed to the cold of winter."

"I am following the situation with sorrow, and I am close to and pray for those who suffer," he said.

"The continuation of hostilities, with increasingly serious consequences for civilians, widens the rift between peoples and pushes further back the opportunity for a just and lasting peace," he said, inviting everyone "to intensify their efforts to end this war."

Republic of South Africa Methodist Church of Southern Africa minister, Reverend Ntobeko Dlamini, has commended the ecumenical efforts demonstrated by various Christian denominations during the week just ending. Christians around the world have been commemorating the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity. This is an annual, worldwide Christian tradition observed from 18 January to 25 January.

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During the Angelus, Pope Leo XIV highlights the observance of Sunday of the Word of God, thanks those who care for those affected by leprosy, and reminds Christians of the conclusion of the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity.

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During his Angelus address, Pope Leo XIV urges intensifying efforts to end the war in Ukraine and reiterates his appeal for prayers for peace in the nation and in other regions affected by conflict.

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At the Angelus, Pope Leo XIV reflects on the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry, urging Christians not to be paralysed by fear or unfavourable circumstances, but to trust in God’s timing. He also calls on the faithful to proclaim the Gospel in every human setting, as a force for fraternity and peace.

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In his message for the 100th World Mission Day, Pope Leo XIV writes that the Church’s identity is to be a community in mission, “at the service of fraternity among all human beings and harmony with all creation.”

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After the number of people detained by the U.S.’ immigration enforcement agency hits record high, U.N. High Commissioner Volker Türk says "demonizing migrants and refugees collectively as criminals, threats, or burdens on society – based on their origin, nationality or migration status – inhuman, wrong".

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The constant strikes on the energy distribution network have caused operational damage far worse than expected, leaving thousands of households without heating or electricity.

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As the Church celebrates the Third Sunday in Ordinary Time, Fr. Luke Gregory, OFM, reflects on the theme: “The here and now significance of Jesus’ ministry in Capernaum.”

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Following a tradition begun with his predecessor, Pope Leo meets with a small group of business leaders from the energy and critical minerals sectors operating in Latin America and the Caribbean. Their focus ranges from building bridges to territorial needs and aspirations for care of our common home and decent work.

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