Pope Leo XIV: Christ Remains Hope Amid the Scourge of War

Vatican City, July 5, 2026: Pope Leo XIV urged the faithful to place their hope in Christ, saying that only He can overcome evil and lighten the burdens of humanity, during his Angelus address in St. Peter's Square on Sunday.

Reflecting on the Gospel of Matthew 11:25–30, the Pope said Christ walks alongside those who suffer, carrying the weight of their crosses and offering hope, forgiveness and freedom.

“In slavery, Christ is liberation. Amid the scourge of war, Christ is hope. In the hour of sin, Christ is forgiveness,” the Pope said, stressing that Christ alone provides the answer to the evil and suffering present in the world.

Pope Leo explained that Jesus embraces humanity wounded by evil in order to heal and restore it. He noted that the cross, while a sign of suffering, is also the source of hope and redemption because Christ bears its weight with humanity.

Describing Christian discipleship as “a school of freedom”, the Pope said following Christ is not about self-denial for its own sake but about discovering the deeper meaning of life, even in its darkest moments. He added that only through Christ's cross is evil defeated and human suffering redeemed.

The Pope also highlighted humility as essential to understanding God's wisdom. Referring to the Gospel, he said God reveals Himself to the humble rather than to those who rely solely on their own knowledge and pride.

“So filled are they with their own ideas that they fail to recognise the presence of Christ,” he said, warning that human wisdom can become arrogance and doctrine can degenerate into pride.

Quoting Jesus' invitation, “Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens,” Pope Leo said God's message is directed especially to those who struggle. He encouraged the faithful to respond to Christ's love by sharing in His life, even through the cross.

The Pope concluded by describing Christ's “yoke” as the heart of His teaching, founded on self-giving love that brings true wisdom, hope and salvation.

Courtesy: Vatican News