Pope Leo XIV: Everyone Can Build Peace and Reconciliation

Pope Leo XIV brought a powerful message of hope to families in Rome's Torrevecchia neighborhood: every person, no matter how young, can help build a more peaceful world.

During his fourth Lenten visit to Roman parishes, the Pope spent Sunday afternoon at Santa Maria della Presentazione church. Families, children preparing for First Communion, and youth groups welcomed him in the square outside.

The visit centered on children and young people who asked the Pope for advice on meeting Jesus and supporting friends through hard times. Pope Leo encouraged them to choose reconciliation over conflict and to reject bullying, violence, and hatred in all forms.

He reminded children that when conflicts arise with friends, they have the power to make peace. Using a book on prayer he'd recently read, the Pope urged young people to open their hearts to Christ and recognize Him in people who suffer.

Before celebrating Mass, Pope Leo greeted families facing financial struggles and parishioners who were sick. He took extra time with elderly community members, even joking that the gathering of cardinals accompanying him looked like a "small conclave."

During Mass, the Pope acknowledged the real challenges facing the neighborhood, including unemployment worries, housing insecurity, and limited safe community spaces. Many people arrive at the parish carrying wounds and searching for hope, he noted.

The Ripple Effect

Pope Leo's message reaches beyond one Rome neighborhood. By telling children they can be peacemakers, he's empowering the next generation to transform their communities from the ground up.

The Pope called on the parish to reflect the Church's mission as a welcoming mother who listens and supports without judgment. He encouraged parish activities to show Christ's closeness to those in need.

His homily reflected on the Gospel story of Jesus and the Samaritan woman, connecting it to modern situations of marginalization and hardship. He invited everyone to rediscover during Lent the grace of their Baptism.

Pope Leo concluded by reminding the faithful to move forward with trust, knowing the Lord walks with them through daily life.