Pope Opens Cardinals' Gathering with Strong Appeal for Peace

Pope Leo XIV has opened a two-day gathering of cardinals at the Vatican with a renewed call for peace, urging world leaders to reject war and resolve conflicts through dialogue rather than violence.

Presiding over Mass at St Peter’s Basilica, the pontiff said ongoing conflicts around the world continue to inflict deep suffering on humanity. He stressed that war can never be justified as a solution to international disputes, insisting that people should use wisdom, reason and diplomacy instead of force.

The closed-door meeting, known as a consistory, brings together all 241 cardinals from across the globe to discuss major challenges facing the Catholic Church and the wider international community. Discussions over the two-day event are expected to focus on global conflicts, peacebuilding, artificial intelligence, synodality and the Church's future direction.

Pope Leo described international tensions as a serious threat to humanity, calling on political leaders to pursue reconciliation and uphold human dignity. He emphasised that technological advancement should never replace moral responsibility, adding that humanity has both the intelligence and free will to settle disputes peacefully.

The gathering marks the second time Pope Leo has convened the full College of Cardinals since his election in 2025. The Vatican said the meeting reflects the Pope's commitment to a more collaborative style of leadership, with cardinals contributing to discussions on the Church's response to global issues.

The consistory will conclude with further plenary sessions and workshops aimed at shaping the Church's approach to contemporary challenges, including conflict resolution, evangelisation and pastoral leadership.