To close the month of May, Pope Leo XIV led a Rosary for Peace at the Grotto of Lourdes in the Vatican Gardens, joining Catholics around the world in prayer for those affected by war, violence, and displacement.

Reflecting on Psalm 85, the Holy Father spoke of the hope needed in a world marked by conflict and uncertainty. He encouraged the faithful to open their hearts to God through prayer, allowing His word to guide them through the challenges of history and reveal His providential care.

Pope Leo pointed to the Blessed Virgin Mary as the model of faithful discipleship. Through the Rosary, believers are drawn closer to Jesus Christ, whom the Pope described as the source of true peace. In Christ, God continually seeks out those who have wandered and calls them back into communion with Him.

The Pope emphasized that peace is not merely an ideal or political objective, but a daily commitment rooted in justice, charity, and conversion. Peace becomes possible, he said, when people listen to the cries of those who suffer most, including children, families, refugees, prisoners, and victims of violence.

He also stressed that peacemaking begins in everyday life. Christians are called to reject verbal and physical violence, including hostility on social media, and instead foster reconciliation, truth, and charity in their interactions with others.

Concluding the Rosary, Pope Leo entrusted this mission to the Blessed Mother, asking her to help the faithful respond to God’s call through both prayer and action.

Join us at 7pm CT every night for the Family Rosary Across America as we approach the end of our 54-Day Rosary Novena to the Sacred Heart!