Pope Leo XIV has called on world leaders to resolve conflicts through dialogue and humanity rather than violence, declaring that wars are never worthy of humanity or blessed by God.
The Pope made the appeal on Friday while presiding over the opening of a gathering of cardinals from around the world at the Vatican.
The closed-door assembly, known as a consistory, is expected to conclude on Saturday and is aimed at discussing major global challenges confronting the Catholic Church.
The meeting began with a Mass celebrated by the US-born pontiff at St. Peter’s Basilica, where he delivered a strong message against war and violence.
“International tensions and conflicts seriously wound the human family,” Pope Leo said during his homily.
“War is never worthy of humanity, and it is never blessed by God.
“Even if we are equipped with high-tech weapons, the Creator has endowed us with intelligence and free will to resolve conflicts as human beings and not as beasts.”
The Pope’s latest appeal for peace comes amid continued criticism of his anti-war position by United States President Donald Trump.
This marks the second time Pope Leo has convened all 241 cardinals since his election in May 2025.
The gathering is increasingly being viewed as a key element of his leadership style, reflecting his commitment to a more collaborative and collegial approach to governing the Catholic Church.
The two-day programme includes prayers, workshops and plenary sessions designed to encourage dialogue among members of the College of Cardinals.
Speaking ahead of the meeting, Cardinal Jean-Paul Vesco, Archbishop of Algiers, said the Pope was determined to strengthen unity within the Church’s leadership.
“There will be genuine sharing among us. It’s clear that Pope Leo wants us to form a college, to get to know one another,” Vesco told AFP.
“The more we have these meetings, the more united we will be.”
