Popes of earlier ages would not recognize this man’s teaching.
On Palm Sunday, March 29, 2026, Pope Leo XIV preached a homily that has been getting a great deal of attention for his claim that “Jesus, King of Peace,” actually “does not listen to the prayers of those who wage war, but rejects them, saying: ‘Even though you make many prayers, I will not listen: your hands are full of blood’” (Is 1:15).
The pope added that “While he was burdened with our sufferings and pierced for our sins, Jesus ‘did not open his mouth, like a lamb that is led to the slaughter, and like a sheep that before its shearers is silent’ (Is 53:7). He did not arm himself, or defend himself, or fight any war. He revealed the gentle face of God, who always rejects violence. Rather than saving himself, he allowed himself to be nailed to the cross, embracing every cross borne in every time and place throughout human history.”
The pontiff was clearly presenting these reflections as an example for us to follow, and as a warning: if we wage war or approve of war, apparently almighty God will be angry with us, and not hear our prayers.
