After praying the Regina Caeli on Sunday, Pope Leo XIV turned his attention to Christians suffering throughout the world, especially in China and the Middle East.

The Holy Father marked the World Day of Prayer for the Church in China, which coincides each year with the feast of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Help of Christians. The title holds special significance for Chinese Catholics, particularly at the Marian Shrine of Sheshan near Shanghai, where the faithful have long expressed deep devotion to Our Lady.

Pope Leo entrusted the Catholic community in China to the care of the Blessed Virgin Mary, praying that Chinese Christians remain united with the universal Church and continue to bear faithful witness to the Gospel in their daily lives. He asked that they become signs of hope and peace, especially amid hardship and suffering.

The Pope also remembered those affected by the recent mining accident in northern China, praying for eternal rest for the victims.

Turning to the Middle East, Pope Leo entrusted the Christian communities of the Holy Land, Lebanon, and the surrounding region to the intercession of Mary, Help of Christians. He prayed especially for those enduring the effects of war, violence, and instability.

Throughout his pontificate, Pope Leo XIV has consistently emphasized peace, reconciliation, and the unity of the Church, often calling on the faithful to remain rooted in prayer and hope even during times of suffering and uncertainty.

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