His Holiness Pope Leo XIV calls for Prayers for peace and those suffering due to war

His Holiness Pope Leo XIV greetings the crowds in Castel Gandolfo following the Angelus  (@Vatican Media)

At the conclusion of the Angelus in Castel Gandolfo, His Holiness Pope Leo XIV asked everyone to pray for all those who are suffering and in need due to war, while recalling Saturday's beatification in Barcelona of Marist Brother Licarion May, who was killed in the early 1900s out of hatred for the faith.

By Salvatore Cernuzio

Following the catechesis of Sunday's Angelus, His Holiness Pope Leo XIV called on everyone to pray for peace and to remember all who are suffering due to violence and war and find themselves in need.

The words echoed what he had expressed earlier in his homily during the Mass over which he presided on Sunday morning at the parish of Saint Thomas of Villanova when he spoke about the wounded man in the parable of the Good Samaritan and how violence and poverty destroy dreams and lives.

Standing on the red platform set up in front of the doors of the Apostolic Palace, the same one used by his predecessors, His Holiness Pope Leo XIV arrived by foot around 11:30 a.m. from the Parish of Saint Thomas of Villanova.

He said he was delighted to be in Castel Gandolfo, and he thanked everyone for their warm welcome. 

Heroic witness of Blessed Licarion May

He then recalled the beatification celebrated Saturday, 12 July, in Barcelona of Br. Licarion May, born François Benjamin, a Marist Brother who was killed during the popular uprisings of 1909 out of hatred for the faith and in hostile circumstances.

"He lived his educational mission with passion and courage among the poorest,” the Pope noted, praying that his witness “serve as inspiration for all,” especially for those who work in the field of education.

Tribute to youth leaders and educators

Continuing his reflections on the world of education, the Pope thanked youth leaders and educators who spend the summer months with young people…