As the first Pope from the U.S., Leo’s pontificate was already unique. But now he’s making waves on the world stage.
And Pope Leo XIV made a massive condemnation of the war in Gaza that could change everything.
Pope Leo XIV Condemns Gaza Violence, Mourns Victims
In his July 20, Angelus address from Castel Gandolfo, Pope Leo XIV delivered a powerful condemnation of the ongoing war in Gaza, describing the violence as “barbarism” and expressing deep sorrow for the victims of Israel’s July 17 strike on the Holy Family Catholic Parish.
The attack claimed the lives of three Catholics—Saad Issa Kostandi Salameh, Foumia Issa Latif Ayyad, and Najwa Ibrahim Latif Abu Daoud—prompting the Pope to lead prayers for them and their families.
“I pray for the victims… and I am particularly close to their families and to all the parishioners,” he said.
“Sadly, this act adds to the continuous military attacks against the civilian population and places of worship in Gaza.” He reiterated his call for a peaceful resolution, urging global leaders to adhere to international humanitarian law, protect civilians, and avoid collective punishment, indiscriminate force, and forced displacement.
Addressing Middle East Christians, he expressed solidarity, stating, “You are in the heart of the Pope and of the whole Church,” and invoked the Virgin Mary’s intercession to guide the region toward peace.
Emphasis on Humanitarian Law and Civilian Protection
Pope Leo XIV’s remarks underscored the importance of upholding international humanitarian standards amid the Gaza conflict.
He specifically called on the international community to respect laws prohibiting attacks on civilians and places of worship, as well as forced displacement and collective punishment.
The Pope’s focus on the July 17 attack highlighted concerns about the targeting of civilian infrastructure, such as the Holy Family Catholic Parish, which has drawn international attention.
By invoking Mary as the “woman of the Levant” and “dawn of the new Sun,” he framed his appeal within a spiritual context, urging hope and resilience among those affected by the violence while encouraging global efforts to foster a lasting resolution.
Meditation on Christian Hospitality and Genuine Encounter
The Pope’s address began with a reflection on Christian hospitality, drawing from the Gospel story of Martha and Mary to explore the balance between serving and being present.
He noted that the Italian word for “guest” and “host” is the same, emphasizing the reciprocal nature of hospitality.
“Martha is a generous person, but our Lord calls her to something more than generosity alone,” he said, cautioning against reducing hospitality to mere productivity.
He critiqued the modern “holiday industry” for promoting distraction over meaningful rest, stating, “Every genuine encounter is free; it cannot be bought, whether it is an encounter with God, with others or with nature.”
Encouraging the faithful to emulate Mary’s attentiveness to Jesus, Pope Leo XIV urged a deeper practice of hospitality that includes both welcoming others and allowing oneself to be welcomed, fostering authentic connections in a world often driven by superficial experiences.
