Pope Leo calls for dialogue over conflict, says young Catholics are sign of hope

Pope Leo XIV, during his visit to the small, landlocked nation of San Marino and a large Catholic gathering in the city of Rimini, Italy, delivered a strong plea against war, polarization, and social division. He called for believers to engage in dialogue and foster friendship in a world that seems increasingly fractured.

Addressing a crowd of tens of thousands in Rimini, Pope Leo cautioned against a culture that "rearms minds, words, and nations." He argued that Christians must respond with mercy, engage in encounters, and commit to peace. He also offered words of encouragement to young Catholics, telling them that they represent a hopeful future, rather than a threat.

Earlier in San Marino, Pope Leo visited the local authorities of the world's oldest surviving republic. He reflected on the legacy of Saints Marino and Leone, whom he credited with helping establish a society built on freedom, mutual respect, and community. The pope stated that these saints translated the Christian message into a new community and political model, characterized by the principles of Christian freedom, mutual respect, and community.