Papal encouragement for Pax Christi USA in efforts to promote nonviolence, peace (Pax Christi USA)

Extending his good wishes to participants in Pax Christi USA’s national conference, Pope Leo XIV wrote that “in the midst of the many challenges facing our world at this time, including widespread armed conflict, division among peoples, and the challenges of forced migration, efforts to promote nonviolence are all the more necessary.”

“We do well to remember that after the violence of the Crucifixion, the risen Christ’s first words to the Apostles offered peace, one ‘that is unarmed and disarming, humble and persevering,’” Pope Leo continued, quoting his first Urbi et Orbi blessing.

“Jesus continues to send his followers into the world to become creators of peace in their daily lives,” the Pope added in his message, dated July 20 and released July 25. “In parishes, neighborhoods, and especially on the peripheries, it is all the more important for a Church capable of reconciliation to be present and visible.”