Pope Leo XIV urges peace and dialogue at extraordinary consistory

Pope Leo XIV concluded the second extraordinary consistory in the Vatican, addressing 178 cardinals from all continents. He called for an explicit rejection of violence, stating “violence will not have the last word,” and emphasized God’s desire for peace for every nation. The Pope linked war to a “culture of power” affecting politics, economics, technology and religion, urging a shift toward cooperation, multilateralism and ecumenical dialogue.

He highlighted the suffering of youth, noting the risk of extreme despair, and pledged an October meeting with leaders of Eastern Churches and episcopal conferences to review progress since Amoris Laetitia. The Pope also expressed solidarity with Venezuelan earthquake victims and affirmed the need for the Church to serve as a space for listening, prayer and shared discernment.

The address framed peace as rooted in the hearts of individuals, urging the faithful to build “disarmed words” and new relationships that can extend peace to all peoples.