Pope Leo XIV Calls for Global Action Against Antisemitism

Pope Leo XIV marked International Holocaust Remembrance Day on January 27, 2026, by calling for an end to antisemitism and all forms of prejudice, oppression, and persecution worldwide. During his weekly audience at the Vatican, he stated, “On this annual occasion of painful remembrance, I ask the Almighty for the gift of a world with no more antisemitism and, with no more prejudice, oppression, or persecution of any human being.” He urged world leaders to remain vigilant to prevent genocide from occurring again, emphasizing the need for a society based on mutual respect and the common good.

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The Catholic Church's relationship with Judaism has evolved significantly over the past decades, particularly following the promulgation of the Nostra Aetate declaration by Pope Paul VI in 1965. This document marked a pivotal shift in Catholic attitudes towards Jews, promoting dialogue and respect. Pope Leo has reiterated the Church's commitment to combating antisemitism, aligning with the principles established in Nostra Aetate, which asserts that the Church rejects any form of discrimination based on ethnicity, language, nationality, or religion.

Pope Leo asks God for world without antisemitism

Since becoming pope in May 2025, Leo has consistently condemned antisemitism. His remarks during the Holocaust commemoration echo previous statements made during his papacy, including a notable address in October 2025 where he described the importance of restoring the original relationship between Christianity and Judaism. He stated, “Dialogue is not a tactic or a tool, but a way of life — a journey of the heart that transforms everyone involved.”

Pope Leo asks God for world without antisemitism

Despite the pope's efforts to promote interfaith dialogue and condemn antisemitism, there are dissenting voices within the Catholic community. Some individuals and groups, particularly on the political right, have been accused of promoting antisemitic rhetoric, which contradicts the Church's teachings. The Anti-Defamation League has highlighted figures such as Nick Fuentes, who espouse views that reject the principles of Nostra Aetate, thereby complicating the Church's mission to combat antisemitism.

Pope Leo Says Catholic Church ‘Unwavering’ in Its Opposition to ‘Every Form of Antisemitism’

Pope Leo's statements have been met with support from various Jewish leaders, who express optimism for interfaith relations under his leadership. The Israeli Ministry of Diaspora Affairs has also emphasized the need for proactive measures against rising antisemitism, documenting numerous incidents of hate against Jews globally.

Pope Leo Says Catholic Church ‘Unwavering’ in Its Opposition to ‘Every Form of Antisemitism’

• “On this annual occasion of painful remembrance, I ask the Almighty for the gift of a world with no more antisemitism and, with no more prejudice, oppression, or persecution of any human being,” — Pope Leo XIV

Pope Leo calls for an end to antisemitism worldwide

• “Let us fight against all forms of antisemitism.” — Pope Leo XIV

Pope Leo prays for ‘no more antisemitism and no more prejudice’ on Holocaust Remembrance Day

• “The Church rejects any discrimination or harassment based on ethnicity, language, nationality, or religion.” — Pope Leo XIV

Pope Leo Says Catholic Church ‘Unwavering’ in Its Opposition to ‘Every Form of Antisemitism’

Pope Leo XIV's ongoing commitment to addressing antisemitism reflects a broader effort to foster understanding and respect among different faiths, while also confronting the challenges posed by rising hate and prejudice in contemporary society.

Pope Leo prays for ‘no more antisemitism and no more prejudice’ on Holocaust Remembrance Day