In brief
Pope Leo XIV spoke at St. Peter’s Square on Nov. 1, urging that aid to civilians in Oleshky, Ukraine, strengthen talks and lead to lasting peace. He also mentioned the beatification of Pedro de Corpa in Georgia, the first Youth Olympic Games on African soil in Senegal and announced a mission for the vulnerable in Rome.
On Nov. 1, Pope Leo XIV delivered an address at St. Peter’s Square, calling for strengthened talks to finish the suffering caused by war, particularly in the Ukrainian town of Oleshky, where recent humanitarian aid was delivered. The Pope said the cooperation that made this aid possible should inspire further dialogue between the conflicting parties and help build concrete steps toward peace.
The address followed the Angelus morning prayer on the Solemnity of All Saints, during which the Pope also thanked all those who could help bring relief to people caught in armed conflict. He entrusted the victims of wars in different parts of the world to the Virgin Mary, Queen of Peace, and the saints, asking for prayers for their safety.
The Pope referenced the beatification ceremony in Savannah, Georgia, for Pedro de Corpa and four companions—religious members of the Friars Minor who were martyred in 1597. His remarks underscored the values of courage and faith in facing hardship.
He also talked about the Youth Olympic Games in Dakar, Senegal, running from Oct. 31 to Nov. 13. It is the first Olympic event on the African continent and features athletes aged 15 to 18. Beyond sports, the program includes schools and cultural gatherings that promote Olympic values and help different young people from across the globe understand each other.
Sport, the Pope said, is a sign of hope. He sent his greetings and blessings to all the athletes and organizers of the Youth Olympic Games.
The Pope announced that a new “Mission with the Poor” would open in Rome from Nov. 8 to 15. The Friars Minor will work with vulnerable individuals, placing their needs at the center of the mission’s activities.
Overall, Leo XIV’s message linked humanitarian aid, religious remembrance, and youth sports with the idea that dialogue and hope can pave a way toward lasting peace.
