Pope Leo XIV has renewed his call for peace across the world, appealing especially for an “immediate and effective ceasefire” in Myanmar, where conflict and human suffering continue to deepen.
Speaking after celebrating Holy Mass in St. Peter’s Square on World Mission Sunday, the Pope expressed deep concern over the “distressing news” coming from Myanmar, a nation gripped by violence since May 2021.
According to Vatican News, the Holy Father lamented the ongoing armed clashes and aerial bombardments targeting civilians and infrastructure. He assured the people of Myanmar of his closeness and prayers, urging all parties to replace “the instruments of war with those of peace through inclusive and constructive dialogue.”
“I renew my heartfelt appeal for an immediate and effective ceasefire,” Pope Leo said, emphasizing that only dialogue and mutual respect can lead to a just and lasting peace.
The Holy Father extended his prayer beyond Myanmar, remembering the peoples of the Holy Land, Ukraine, and other war-torn regions of the world. “May God grant all leaders wisdom and perseverance to advance in the pursuit of a just and lasting peace,” he said.
World Mission Sunday, observed annually by the universal Church, is a time to celebrate and support the missionary efforts of Christians throughout the world. In his remarks before the Angelus, Pope Leo reminded the faithful that every Christian is called to mission.
“The Church is entirely missionary,” the Pope said. “But today we pray especially for those men and women who have left everything to bring the Gospel to those who do not yet know it. They are missionaries of hope among the nations. May the Lord bless them!”
As Vatican News reported, the Pope’s appeal linked the call to mission with the call to peace, reminding Christians that to be missionary is also to be peacemakers.
World Mission Sunday this year invites believers to renew their commitment to proclaim Christ’s love and peace, especially in places, like Myanmar, where faith communities continue to suffer amid violence and uncertainty.
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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