Pope at Regina Caeli urges Christians to give voice to hope stifled by violence

Vatican City, 6 April 2026: Pope Leo XIV calls on Christians to bear witness to the Gospel in a world affected by fake news, conflict, and "confused consciences".

By Linda Bordoni

During the Regina Caeli on Easter Monday in Saint Peter’s Square, Pope Leo XIV encouraged Christians to remain faithful witnesses of the Gospel amid a climate shaped by misinformation, conflict, and social hardship.

Reflecting on the Gospel narrative of the empty tomb, the Pope pointed out that two distinct versions arise from the same event: the account of the women, who encountered the risen Jesus and proclaimed His Resurrection, and the version of the guards, who asserted that the body had been taken. He explained that from this one event come two contrasting interpretations—one affirming life and the other rejecting it.

He added that this contrast remains relevant today, as the communication of truth is often obstructed. “Often, the proclamation of truth is obscured by what we today call ‘fake news’ - lies, insinuations, and unfounded accusations,” he said.

He further stressed the need for the truth of the Gospel to reach those "oppressed by the evil that corrupts history and confuses consciences" so that the Paschal mystery, "in both word and deed", may "give a new voice to hope."

Do not be afraid to proclaim the Gospel

The Pope stated that even amid present-day confusion, the truth endures. Recalling the words of Jesus, “Do not be afraid; go and tell,” he emphasised that this message continues to guide Christian witness.

He also referred to various global situations where people and communities suffer from violence and deprivation, specifically mentioning those affected by war, Christians facing persecution for their faith, and children denied access to education.

“To proclaim the Paschal mystery of Christ in both word and deed means to give a new voice to hope,” the Pope said, describing a hope often “stifled by the hands of the violent.”

He added that wherever the Gospel is lived and proclaimed, it brings light into darkness and restores meaning in times of confusion.

Remembering Pope Francis

At the end of his address, the Pope invited the faithful to remember with gratitude Pope Francis, who “on Easter Monday of last year, returned to the Lord.” Recalling his predecessor’s “profound witness of faith and love,” he entrusted the Church to the intercession of the Virgin Mary, Seat of Wisdom.

“Let us pray,” he said, “that we may become ever more radiant heralds of the truth.”

International Day of Sport for Development and Peace

After the Regina Caeli Prayer, the Pope extended a special greeting to all those involved in initiatives marking the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace, an annual observance established by the United Nations to underline sport’s unique ability to promote connection, inclusion, and peace.

The Pope renewed his appeal that sport, through its universal language of fraternity, may serve as a space for inclusion and peace.

Courtesy: Vatican News