Pope Leo XIV welcomed the new year on Thursday with a global appeal for peace, encouraging people worldwide to start 2026 by renouncing violence and embracing reconciliation.
In his 2026 address, the pontiff called on believers to “create a year of peace by disarming our hearts and abstaining from all forms of violence.”
Approximately 40,000 gathered to hear the pope’s New Year’s Day message on the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God, which also coincides with World Day of Peace.
At the beginning of his address, Pope Leo offered his wishes for peace and wellbeing in the new year and extended a special greeting to Italian President Sergio Mattarella.
Following the Angelus prayer, the pope noted that January 1 has been observed as the World Day of Peace since 1968, following the initiative of Pope St. Paul VI.
Contemplating the significance of the day, Pope Leo recalled the words spoken to him after his election as bishop of Rome: “Peace be with you all.”
“This peace,” the pope stated, “is unarmed and disarming. It originates from God; it is a gift of his unconditional love, and it is entrusted to our care.”
He also stressed that peace is not enforced through force, but rather a gift requiring personal transformation and daily choices.
Addressing Christians and all people of goodwill, Pope Leo called on them to start immediately.
“With resolve,” he said, “let us begin today to build a year of peace, disarming our hearts and refraining from all violence.”
The pope recognized that peace-building efforts are already in progress worldwide and expressed gratitude for individuals and organizations committed to ending conflict and fostering dialogue.
Aligned with the peace theme, he highlighted a national event held on December 31 in Catania, Italy, and referenced another organized by members of the Community of Sant’Egidio, renowned for its international peace initiatives.
Pope Leo also greeted students and teachers present in the square.
Concluding his address, the pope spoke about the 800th anniversary of St. Francis of Assisi’s death, a figure also closely linked to peace.
He closed with the saint’s biblical blessing: “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord lift his countenance upon you and .”
Pope Leo concluded by entrusting the new year to Mary, Mother of God, asking her to guide humanity on its path in the coming year.