In a move that probably ruffled a few geopolitical feathers, Pope Leo XIV used his Palm Sunday Mass to firmly remind everyone that, no, God does not endorse your war. Speaking to a massive crowd in St. Peter's Square, the Pontiff declared God a "king of peace" who is decidedly not taking prayer requests from those actively engaged in conflict.
This rather pointed message lands as the U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran rolls into its second month, and Russia's ongoing campaign in Ukraine grinds on. Both sides, naturally, have been fairly liberal with their religious justifications. Think U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth citing his Christian faith, or Russia's Orthodox Church dubbing the Ukraine invasion a "holy war." The Pope, apparently, is not impressed.
A Blunt Message and a Blessing
Palm Sunday, for the uninitiated, is when Christians commemorate Jesus's entrance into Jerusalem before the whole crucifixion and resurrection thing. So, a pretty big deal. And the Pope chose it to deliver a clear message: God isn't on the side of anyone waging war. Which, if you think about it, is both impressive and slightly terrifying for those currently doing exactly that.
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Start Your News DetoxThe Pontiff also offered a special blessing for Christians in the Middle East, noting they're "suffering the consequences of an atrocious conflict." He specifically highlighted that many can't even fully observe Holy Week traditions. Because, you know, war tends to get in the way of things like ancient religious ceremonies.
Earlier that same day, Jerusalem police apparently prevented Catholic leaders from entering the Church of the Holy Sepulchre — a first in centuries. So much for peaceful observance.
Back to Tradition, Sort Of
This Holy Week marks a bit of a return to tradition for Pope Leo XIV, the first U.S.-born pope. He'll preside over the Holy Thursday foot-washing ceremony at the Basilica of St. John Lateran, a nod to Jesus' Last Supper.
His predecessor, Pope Francis, famously took this ritual out of the basilica and into prisons and refugee centers, washing the feet of a diverse group that included Muslims. It was a whole thing about humility and service. Pope Leo XIV, however, is bringing it back to the classic location, much like Popes Benedict XVI and John Paul II, who typically washed the feet of 12 priests. One assumes these priests were less likely to be surprised by the sudden foot-washing.
He'll then lead the Good Friday procession at Rome's Colosseum, baptize new Catholics on Saturday, and deliver his Easter blessing on Sunday. All while presumably still not taking calls from warmongers. Let that sink in.
