Pope Leo XIV calls for peace and equality during Angelus prayer

Pope Leo XIV led the Angelus prayer from Castel Gandolfo on August 16, 2026, following the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. During his address to the faithful, the Pope reflected on the biblical story of the Canaanite woman, using her example to highlight the importance of humility, determination, and faith.

He emphasized that “the table of God is prepared for everyone” and that no individual should be relegated to receiving “crumbs,” asserting that every person has a place with the Father. The Pope used the occasion to denounce inequalities, discrimination, and barriers that undermine human dignity, calling the Church to be a presence of peace in a “tormented world.”

In addition to his theological reflections, Pope Leo XIV addressed current global issues. He called for an end to violence against Palestinian civilians in the West Bank and urged the international community to support a two-state solution for lasting peace. He also welcomed the Mediterranean Games in Italy, noting the event's potential to foster fraternity and encounter.