Pope Leo's Palm Sunday Message: A Call for Peace Amidst War

On Palm Sunday, March 29, 2026, Pope Leo delivered a powerful homily in St. Peter's Square, addressing tens of thousands of attendees as the conflict in Iran entered its second month. The pontiff, the first U.S.-born pope, emphasized that God rejects the prayers of leaders who initiate wars, stating, “This is our God: Jesus, King of Peace, who rejects war, whom no one can use to justify war.” He cited a biblical passage, asserting that Jesus does not listen to the prayers of those with "hands full of blood," a clear condemnation of the ongoing violence.

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The remarks come amid escalating tensions in the Iran war, which has seen joint U.S.-Israeli military actions since February 28, 2026. U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has publicly invoked Christian rhetoric to justify these military actions, framing them as a moral imperative. Pope Leo's comments serve as a counter-narrative to such justifications, calling for an immediate ceasefire and denouncing military airstrikes as indiscriminate.

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Pope Leo's Palm Sunday address marks a significant moment in his papacy, as he seeks to reaffirm the Catholic Church's commitment to peace and reconciliation. This message resonates with his predecessor, Pope Francis, who similarly emphasized humility and service during his tenure. Francis was known for washing the feet of marginalized individuals, including those of different faiths, to illustrate the church's outreach to the peripheries of society. Leo is set to continue this tradition during Holy Week, returning the foot-washing ceremony to the basilica of St. John Lateran.

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While Pope Leo's message has been well-received by many, it has also faced criticism. Some detractors have expressed discomfort with his inclusive approach, particularly his willingness to wash the feet of individuals from various faiths. Critics argue that such gestures dilute the church's message and compromise its moral authority.

Associated Press

In his homily, Pope Leo reiterated the church's stance against the use of violence, stating, “He revealed the gentle face of God, who always rejects violence.” His call for peace aligns with broader efforts within the Catholic Church to advocate for non-violence and reconciliation in times of conflict.

Reuters

As Holy Week progresses, Pope Leo is scheduled to preside over key liturgical events, including the Good Friday procession at the Colosseum and the Easter Sunday Mass in St. Peter's Square. These ceremonies will likely further emphasize his commitment to peace and the church's mission to serve those in need.

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• “This is our God: Jesus, King of Peace, who rejects war, whom no one can use to justify war,” — Pope Leo

The Independent

• “(Jesus) does not listen to the prayers of those who wage war, but rejects them, saying: 'Even though you make many prayers, I will not listen: your hands are full of blood',” — Pope Leo

Reuters

• “He revealed the gentle face of God, who always rejects violence.” — Pope Leo

Reuters