Pope Leo to young people: "The greatest destroyer of peace is abortion"

On Saturday, Pope Leo XIV declared that "peace is not possible while humanity wages war against itself." He made this statement in an address to young participants at a conference focused on political engagement and support for the common good.

The Pope praised the fact that young people from different countries, cultures, and religious traditions are able to work together without division and see diversity as an opportunity for growth. He recalled the "Four Dreams" initiative, inspired by Pope Francis' vision of ecclesial, social, ecological, and cultural renewal, and emphasized that in a time marked by injustice, violence, and war, it is essential to strive for peace at all levels of society.

Lev XIV pointed out that peace does not begin only between states, but also in everyday relationships—in workplaces, universities, and civic life. According to him, politics has an irreplaceable role in building peace, but it requires the active participation of citizens.

The Pope also warned that no policy can truly serve the people if it denies the right to life of the unborn or neglects to help the weak, the poor, refugees, and the oppressed. He recalled the words of Mother Teresa that "the greatest destroyer of peace is abortion" and called on young people not to be discouraged but to continue their efforts to build a more just and peaceful world.

(vatican news, est)