Pope Leo XIV used the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks to issue a renewed plea for peace, praying for victims and emphasizing the importance of global harmony amid current conflicts.
- Pope Leo XIV issues a renewed call for peace on the 25th anniversary
- Prayers for victims and emphasis on global conflict context
- Appeal against violence, poverty and injustice continues
Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope in history, delivered a fresh appeal for peace on the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks, speaking in English from the Vatican balcony overlooking St. Peter’s Square.
He prayed for those who lost their lives and for families still bearing the wounds, urging that at a time of widespread conflict, everyone should pray for the Lord to bestow His gift of peace upon the world.
The pope reminded that the memory of the tragic events pushes us to renew our commitment to peace, especially as poverty and injustice continue to fuel violence worldwide.
Background: In 2001, the then-Archbishop Robert Prevost, who later became Pope Leo XIV, was the provincial leader of the Augustinians in Chicago and was elected superior of the entire order on September 14, his birthday, serving two consecutive terms until 2012.
Vatican News republished excerpts from his 2001 homily, where he reflected on the attacks, noting that “violence will continue to grow as long as many are forced to live in extreme poverty and oppressed by injustice.”
The pope’s remarks link remembrance with a fresh appeal for peace and revisit his 2001 words on violence, poverty, and injustice, underscoring their lasting relevance.
Why This Matters
BozokMedia analysis shows that the pope’s call for peace serves as a beacon for religious communities worldwide, especially amid ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and Eastern Europe.
Pope Leo XIV’s emphasis on prayer highlights the enduring role of faith leaders in mediating global conflicts.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What was Pope Leo XIV’s main message on the 9/11 anniversary?
He called for peace, prayed for victims, and urged global prayer for harmony.
2. How has the Pope’s stance on violence evolved over time?
From 2001 to now, he has consistently highlighted the link between poverty, injustice, and violence, advocating for renewed commitment to peace.