Pope Leo XIV Calls on Diplomats to Build a World Rooted in Peace, Justice, and Truth
- Interfaith
- May 16, 2025
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Pope Leo XIV Calls on Diplomats to Build a World Rooted in Peace, Justice, and Truth
Report by Safarti Tarjuman International Desk
In his first formal address to the Diplomatic Corps accredited to the Holy See, Pope Leo XIV urged global leaders to pursue a new path of peace, anchored in justice, truth, and hope. The address marked a defining moment in the early days of his papacy.
Speaking at the Apostolic Palace on Friday morning, Pope Leo XIV welcomed ambassadors from across the globe just one week after ascending to the papacy. The Pope began his remarks by paying tribute to Ambassador George Poulides of Cyprus, the outgoing Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, acknowledging his years of “dedicated service, respect, and kindness.”
Holy See’s Mission: Diplomacy of Service
Addressing the assembled diplomats, Pope Leo XIV emphasized the Church’s global role as a bridge-builder rather than a political power. He described the diplomatic community as a “family united by human and spiritual values,” committed to addressing the challenges of the modern world.
He stated that the Church does not seek privileges, but rather opportunities to foster dialogue and peace through its unique pastoral diplomacy. This, he noted, reflects the legacy of Pope Francis, whose dedication to the poor, the environment, and ethical issues in technology continues to inspire global efforts.
The Pope also reflected on his personal journey across the Americas and Europe, highlighting his desire to “go beyond borders” and strengthen the Church’s ties with all nations.
Three Pillars of Vatican Diplomacy: Peace, Justice, and Truth
In his keynote message, Pope Leo XIV outlined three central principles that guide the Church’s engagement with the world.
Peace
Peace, he stated, is not merely the absence of war but an active and courageous pursuit of reconciliation. He described it as “the first gift of Christ,” one that begins within the human heart through humility, respectful dialogue, and the rejection of hatred. He warned that words, like weapons, have the power to harm. The Pope called for renewed global commitment to disarmament, religious freedom, and interreligious dialogue, echoing the late Pope Francis’s call to end the arms race.
Justice
The Pope then turned to justice, drawing inspiration from Pope Leo XIII and the Church’s social teachings. He emphasized the urgent need to address inequality, protect human dignity, and support families. Sharing his personal experience as the son of immigrants, Pope Leo XIV called for stronger solidarity among nations, especially in defense of the vulnerable and marginalized.
Truth
Speaking on truth, the Pope highlighted the importance of honest communication in a world plagued by misinformation and digital distortion. He described truth as a living encounter with Christ, calling it essential for addressing complex global challenges such as climate change, migration, and technological disruption. The Church, he said, must speak truth with love, even when it is inconvenient or misunderstood.
A Message of Hope in the Jubilee Year
Closing his address, Pope Leo XIV situated his message within the Jubilee Year of Hope, a time of renewal, reconciliation, and conversion. He emphasized the Holy See’s commitment to walking alongside every nation in pursuit of peace, with a special focus on war-torn regions such as Ukraine and the Holy Land.
The Pope concluded by expressing his desire to see a world where dignity, compassion, and cooperation prevail. “Let us work together,” he urged, “to bring peace where there is pain, and hope where there is despair.”
The speech was welcomed by global diplomats as a powerful vision for ethical leadership and a renewed commitment to global unity.
