In brief
In an address to pilgrims on November 1, Pope Leo XIV highlighted humanitarian assistance to civilians in Oleshky, Ukraine, urging that such actions foster dialogue and lasting peace. He also noted the beatification of Pedro de Corpa in Savannah, the Youth Olympic Games in Dakar, and announced a Mission with the Poor in Rome.
Pope Leo XIV delivered an address to the faithful and pilgrims gathered in St. Peter’s Square on November 1, in front of the Angelus on the Solemnity of All Saints, urging that recent humanitarian efforts for civilians in Oleshky, a town in Ukraine, strengthen dialogue between parties and spark lasting peace initiatives.
He welcomed the collaboration that made the aid possible, saying the gesture might inspire further efforts to end the suffering caused by armed conflicts. The Bishop of Rome entrusted those suffering the consequences of wars in various regions of the world to the Virgin Mary, Queen of Peace, and to all the Saints.
During the remarks, Leo XIV also noted the beatification—held in Savannah, in the U.S. state of Georgia—of Pedro de Corpa and four companions, four religious members of the Order of Friars Minor killed a long time ago. The ceremony was a reminder of how the Church preserves the memory of those who have suffered for faith in tough times.
In addition to appeals for peace, the Pope talked about the Youth Olympic Games, a first Olympic event held on the African continent, taking place in Dakar, Senegal, from October 31 to November 13. He emphasized the connection between sport, hope, and the Olympic values that the event aims to promote among young people between the ages of 15 and 18.
He extended greetings and blessings to participants of the games, noting that sport serves as a sign of hope, bridging people from different countries.
Leo XIV also announced a “Mission with the Poor,” an initiative promoted by the Friars Minor that places vulnerable individuals at the heart of its activities, which will be held in Rome from November 8 to 15. The mission intends to bring attention to those who suffer daily hardships.
As the Pope concluded, he called on the entire Catholic community to look beyond the borders of their own nations and work together to foster peace and equality for all. The address linked the theme of peace with urgent humanitarian assistance, beatification, youth engagement through sport, and ongoing outreach to the poor, creating a broad vision for compassionate action at home and abroad.
