Pope Leo XIV has expressed deep concern over the escalating violence and suffering faced by Christians in the Eastern world, particularly in regions like Ukraine and the Middle East. He condemned the "diabolical intensity" of the conflicts and the prevalence of the "might makes right" principle, urging the international community to address the root causes. The Pope praised the efforts of aid agencies supporting Eastern Churches, while also acknowledging historical instances of misunderstanding within the Catholic community. He called for rejecting "fake news" and emotional manipulation, emphasizing the need for prayer, dialogue, and peace to support the affected communities.
9 days ago
Pope Leo XIV has voiced strong concerns regarding the escalating violence against Christians in the East, describing it as raging with a "diabolical intensity previously unknown" 1 2. He lamented that the principle of "might makes right" is prevailing, driven by self-interest, and that international and humanitarian laws are being disregarded 1 2. The Pope sees this as "unworthy of our humanity, shameful for all mankind and for the leaders of nations" 1.
The Pope specifically highlighted the suffering in Ukraine, Gaza, and the broader Middle East 1 2 4. He mourned the tragic and inhumane situation in Gaza and the Middle East, "ravaged by the spread of war" 1. Pope Leo also expressed his closeness to persecuted Christians following the "heinous terrorist attack" on the Greek Orthodox community in Damascus 5 6.
Pope Leo XIV urged Western Christians to actively support their Eastern counterparts, emphasizing the need to reject "fake news" and emotional manipulation 1 2. He called on them to imitate Christ's love and offer help to these afflicted churches 1. The Pope stressed that Western Christians need to do more to help the Christian East by their "witness" 1. He encouraged Catholics of the West to meet Eastern Catholics, who "are no longer our distant cousins...but our brothers and sisters who, due to forced migration, are our next-door neighbors" 1.
The Pope identified the arms trade as a significant factor fueling the conflicts, lamenting that money which could be used for hospitals and schools is instead used for destruction 1 4. He emphasized the urgent need for the international community to offer support and renew its commitment to peace and reconciliation 5 6. He called for the rejection of "arrogance and revenge, and instead resolutely choose the path of dialogue, diplomacy, and peace" 5 6.
Pope Leo XIV acknowledged the vital role of the Reunion of Aid Agencies for the Oriental Churches (ROACO) in providing material and spiritual support to Eastern-rite Catholic Churches 1 2 4. He praised their efforts to sow "seeds of hope in the lands of the Christian East," offering a "breath of oxygen" to churches worn down by conflict 1 2. The Pope encouraged them to continue their work of helping these "precious and so greatly afflicted" churches 1 2.
How does the Church understand solidarity with persecuted Christians?
The Catholic Church views solidarity with persecuted Christians as a crucial expression of Christian love and a duty rooted in baptism and the call to evangelization . This solidarity manifests in various ways, reflecting a deep connection with those who suffer for their faith.
Here's how the Church understands and promotes solidarity with persecuted Christians:
Apostolic Duty: All faithful Christians, through baptism and confirmation, are called to publicly profess their faith, spread it, and defend it as witnesses of Christ . This includes supporting those who face persecution for their beliefs .
Active Participation: The Church calls on lay members to actively participate in its saving mission, offering help to those facing difficulties, violence, and manipulation of truth . This participation involves transforming the world with the spirit of the Gospel, acting as "salt" and "light" in the face of indifference and egoism .
Bearing Witness: Martyrs who offer their lives for Christ demonstrate that remaining united to Him enables effective service to humanity . Their example reminds all baptized individuals to prioritize holiness .
Prayer and Remembrance: The Church encourages prayer for persecuted Christians and remembers their sacrifices . This remembrance is seen in the tradition of building memorials and places of pilgrimage over the tombs of martyrs, ensuring their witness is not forgotten .
Promoting Unity: The Church emphasizes the importance of unity, especially in the face of persecution . This unity, founded on the Holy Spirit, Apostolic Ministry, and mutual love, strengthens the collective witness of Christians worldwide .
Serving Humanity: By living and proclaiming the message of Christ, the Church serves as a sign and instrument of unity for all humanity . The faithful contribute to the well-being of others through their Christian lives, offering charity and working towards harmony and peace, irrespective of social condition or religion .
In essence, the Church's understanding of solidarity with persecuted Christians is rooted in the belief that all members of the Church are united in Christ and called to support one another, especially those who suffer for their faith . This solidarity is expressed through prayer, action, and a commitment to living out the Gospel values in the world .