Pope Leo XIV calls for humanitarian aid and peace in Gaza
During an audience at the Vatican, Pope Leo XIV called for humanitarian aid for the Gaza Strip and an end to the conflict. He emphasised the need for prayers for peace.
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- Pope Leo XIV appealed for humanitarian aid for the Gaza Strip.
- He called for an end to hostilities and for prayers for peace.
- He highlighted the importance of disarming hearts and building hope.
During his first general audience in the Vatican, Pope Leo XIV drew attention to the dire situation in the Gaza Strip. In front of thousands of the faithful at St. Peter’s Square, the Pope appealed for the delivery of dignified humanitarian aid and an end to hostilities, which affect the most vulnerable.
The situation in the Gaza Strip is worrying and painful. I renew my heartfelt appeal to allow the entry of sufficient humanitarian aid and to put an end to the hostilities, the heartbreaking price of which is paid by children, the elderly, the sick — said the Pope.
The Pope emphasised that "in a world divided and wounded by hatred and war, we are called to sow hope and build peace." He addressed the faithful from various countries, encouraging prayers for peace, especially in the Marian month, reminding them of the Virgin of Fatima’s invitation to say the Rosary daily.
During the audience, Leo XIV referred to the parable of the sower, emphasising that every word of the Gospel is like a seed sown in our lives. The Pope noted that God sows His word in every situation of our lives, regardless of our worries or enthusiasm.
A rather unusual sower goes out to sow, but does not care where the seed falls. He throws the seeds even where it is unlikely they will bear fruit: on the path, on the rocks, among the thorns. This attitude surprises the listener and induces him to ask: how come? — said Leo XIV.
Van Gogh's painting as a symbol of hope
The Pope drew attention to Vincent van Gogh’s painting "The Sower at Sunset", which depicts the toil of the farmer but also the hope that the seed will yield a crop. Leo XIV emphasised that it is God who directs history, even if He sometimes seems absent.
At the end of the audience, Pope Leo XIV gratefully mentioned his predecessor, Pope Francis, who passed away a month ago. He stressed the importance of continuing his work and praying for peace.
