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Pope Condemns War Justifications, Critiques Defense Secretary Hegseth

3/30/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Pope Leo XIV delivered a Palm Sunday sermon condemning the use of Christian teachings to justify war and targeting U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.
He stated, "Jesus, King of Peace, who rejects war, whom no one can use to justify war," and called for prayers for those affected by conflict.
Hegseth prayed for "overwhelming violence" at a Pentagon service.
The pope's remarks contrast with Hegseth's rhetoric amid ongoing U.S.-Iran tensions.

History

Historical Context

In 1963, Pope John XXIII issued the encyclical "Pacem in Terris," advocating for peace and condemning war during the Cold War. This pivotal document emphasized human rights and the need for dialogue among nations, reflecting the Pope's experiences during the Cuban Missile Crisis. Its teachings continue to resonate today, challenging militaristic rhetoric amid ongoing U.S.-Iran tensions.

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Story summary

Pope Leo XIV delivered a Palm Sunday sermon condemning the use of Christian teachings to justify war and targeting U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.
He stated, "Jesus, King of Peace, who rejects war, whom no one can use to justify war," and called for prayers for those affected by conflict.
Hegseth prayed for "overwhelming violence" at a Pentagon service.
The pope's remarks contrast with Hegseth's rhetoric amid ongoing U.S.-Iran tensions.

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