Pope Leo XIV called for a day of worldwide fasting and prayer on August 22.

Pope Leo XIV called on Catholics around the world to participate in a day of prayer and fasting for peace on August 22, coinciding with the feast of Saint Mary Queen.

During the general audience in the Paul VI Hall, before thousands of faithful, the pontiff emphasized the urgency of praying for justice and reconciliation in a world marked by armed conflicts.

A global call for peace

In his message, Leo XIV recalled that "the earth remains wounded by wars in the Holy Land, in Ukraine, and in many other regions." He invited believers to offer that day in supplication, trusting that God will grant peace and justice, and "dry the tears of those who suffer because of armed conflicts."

The pope also asked to invoke Mary, Queen of Peace, "so that peoples may find the path of harmony." In a special greeting to Polish pilgrims, he urged prayers for "the gift of peace, unarmed and disarming, throughout the world and especially in Ukraine and the Middle East."

The value of forgiveness and peacemakers

In another message to Portuguese-speaking faithful, the pontiff stated that "without forgiveness there will never be peace." He also highlighted the work of poor and persecuted Christian communities, as well as of "witnesses of tenderness and forgiveness in places of conflict."

In the homily celebrated last Friday in Castel Gandolfo, during the Mass for the Feast of the Assumption, Leo XIV described these peacemakers and bridge builders as "the joy of the Church." He also recalled that many of them are women, such as Isabel and Mary, "apostles of the resurrection," whose strength should inspire believers.

The pope encouraged the faithful not to fear following Christ, even when it may seem risky. "It may often seem dangerous or reckless. Voices whisper: 'Who is forcing you to do it? Leave it, think of your own interests.' These are voices of death," he warned.