Pope Leo XIV used a visit to San Marino and an address at a major Catholic gathering in Rimini on Saturday to issue appeals against war, polarization and social division, urging Catholic believers to promote dialogue and peace in an increasingly fractured world.
Speaking to tens of thousands at the Rimini Meeting, an annual Catholic cultural festival organized by the Communion and Liberation movement, Leo cautioned against what he characterized as a growing culture of confrontation and militarization that “rearms minds, words and nations.” He argued that Christians must respond with mercy, encounter and a commitment to peace. The pontiff stated that peace emerges through people “who love to encounter one another and are not afraid to engage with one another,” and said that even opponents should be regarded as “a brother or sister to be looked in the eye and encountered in truth.” He also urged Catholics to challenge systems perpetuating poverty, inequality and conflict.
In his earlier remarks in San Marino, Leo addressed local authorities and reflected on the legacy of Saints Marino and Leone, whom he credited with establishing a society grounded in freedom, mutual respect and community. He used the micro state as an example of how small political communities can offer lessons in public service and social cohesion during a period of growing division and distrust. The pope, who is the third to visit San Marino since the nation’s modern papacy era, described it as a “laboratory of good politics.”
A substantial portion of Leo’s address concentrated on young Catholics, whom he portrayed as evidence that “the future is promising, and not a threat.” He encouraged young people to engage with broader society rather than withdraw into isolated communities, urging them to “give yourselves fully” and “go forth to meet everyone.” The pontiff also emphasized listening and dialogue as central to the church’s mission, suggesting that authentic witness attracts believers more effectively than active proselytizing.
Article Attribution | Read More at Article Source
Article summary produced by Claude AI