Pope Leo XIV said that Jesus, the “King of Peace,” rejects violence and does not listen to the prayers of those who wage war, according to Vatican News.
The Pope made the remarks while presiding over Palm Sunday Mass in St. Peter’s Square on March 29, marking the beginning of Holy Week for Catholics worldwide.
Reflecting on the Passion of Christ, the Pope said Jesus revealed a different kind of kingship, one rooted in peace, humility, and self-giving love, even in the face of violence.
“He remains steadfast in meekness, while others are stirring up violence,” the Pope said, as reported by Vatican News. “He offers Himself to embrace humanity, even as others raise swords and clubs.”
Calling Jesus the “King of Peace,” the Pope pointed to moments in the Passion where Christ rejected violence. He recalled how Jesus stopped His disciple from using a sword during His arrest and chose not to defend Himself, even when facing death on the cross.
“He revealed the gentle face of God, who always rejects violence,” the Pope said.
Quoting the prophet Isaiah, “Even though you make many prayers, I will not listen: your hands are full of blood” (Isaiah 1:15)—the Pope warned against using religion to justify war.
“Jesus is the King of Peace, who rejects war, whom no one can use to justify war,” he said, according to Vatican News. “He does not listen to the prayers of those who wage war, but rejects them.”
The Pope also spoke about the suffering of people affected by conflict around the world, noting that many continue to cry out amid violence and injustice.
“Christ, King of Peace, cries out again from His cross: God is love! Have mercy! Lay down your weapons! Remember that you are brothers and sisters!” he said.
He concluded by recalling a prayer inspired by Servant of God Bishop Tonino Bello, entrusting humanity to the care of the Virgin Mary and expressing hope for an end to war, injustice, and suffering.
Palm Sunday is observed by millions of Christians globally, including across Asia, where Holy Week is marked by processions, liturgies, and reflections on Christ’s Passion.
Radio Veritas Asia (RVA), a media platform of the Catholic Church, aims to share Christ. RVA started in 1969 as a continental Catholic radio station to serve Asian countries in their respective local language, thus earning the tag “the Voice of Asian Christianity.” Responding to the emerging context, RVA embraced media platforms to connect with the global Asian audience via its 21 language websites and various social media platforms.
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