Pope Leo XIV spoke bluntly about war, migration and same-sex blessings during a 20-minute in-flight press conference on his return home from Africa. Source: EWTN News.
Before taking questions, the Pope stressed that the primary purpose of a papal trip is pastoral rather than political.
“When I make a trip – speaking for myself, but today as Pope, bishop of Rome – especially an apostolic, pastoral trip, it is to find, accompany, and come to know the people of God,” he said.
He added that such journeys should be understood above all as “an expression of wanting to announce the Gospel, proclaim the message of Jesus Christ,” and as a way “to draw close to the people in their happiness, in the depth of their faith, but also in their suffering.”
Asked about the chaotic state of negotiations aimed at ending the conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the United States, the Pope called for a new mindset rooted in peace rather than violence.
Describing the situation as “very complex,” the Pope said the back-and-forth of negotiations had created “this chaotic and critical situation for the world economy,” while innocent people in Iran were suffering because of the war.
“Rather, I would encourage the continuation of dialogue for peace,” he said. “As Church, I say again, and as a pastor, I cannot be in favour of war, and I would like to encourage everyone to make every effort to seek responses that come from a culture of peace and not of hatred.”
On migration, a major topic ahead of his next international apostolic journey to Spain, the Pope said governments have the right to regulate their borders but insisted that wealthier nations must also address the deeper causes driving people to leave poorer countries.
Questioned about the blessing of same-sex couples after a decision by German Cardinal Reinhard Marx in Munich and Freising, Leo said Church unity should not be reduced to sexual ethics.
Leo said the Holy See had already made clear to the German bishops that it does not agree with the “formalised blessing of couples,” including homosexual couples or couples in irregular situations, beyond what Pope Francis had permitted.
FULL STORY
Pope Leo XIV, returning from Africa: ‘I condemn all actions that are unjust’ (By Marco Mancini, EWTN News)
RELATED COVERAGE
Pope: As a pastor, I cannot be in favor of war; too many innocents have died (Vatican News)
Pope: Africa will enrich my life and ministry as Successor of Peter (Vatican News)
