Celebrating All Souls’ Day Mass at Rome’s Campo Verano Cemetery on November 2, Pope Leo XIV urged prayers for the faithful departed and for families grieving loved ones killed in war. He appealed for their suffering to awaken the consciences of leaders who can bring the fighting to an end.

The Pope’s homily centered on Christian hope in eternal life. Through faith in Christ, he explained, death changes our relationship with those who have died without severing the bond we share with them.

Connecting the commemoration to All Saints’ Day, celebrated the previous day, Pope Leo explained that the holiness and heavenly happiness of the saints guide the Church’s prayers for the dead. Catholics ask God to welcome the departed into that same communion with Him.

The Holy Father recalled Scripture’s assurance that the righteous remain in God’s care. Entrusted to His enduring love, they await the fullness of life He promises His people.

Turning to the Gospel, Pope Leo presented the Beatitudes as a reflection of Christ Himself and a guide for His followers. Living according to them leads toward fulfillment in this life and eternal happiness with God.

He gave particular attention to Christ’s promise of consolation for those who mourn. The Church’s prayers, he said, embrace those facing a recent bereavement, especially families whose loved ones have been taken by war.

The Pope also recalled St. Francis of Assisi’s treatment of death in the Canticle of the Creatures. Francis acknowledges that bodily death comes to everyone while emphasizing the importance of remaining faithful to God’s will.

For Christians, the commemoration of the faithful departed is therefore an occasion both to intercede for those who have died and to renew trust in Christ’s promise of eternal life.