Pope Leo has raised fresh concerns over the rising wave of violence, discrimination, and persecution against Christian communities across several countries, including Nigeria, Mozambique, Sudan, Bangladesh, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
In a message shared on his official X handle, the Pontiff lamented the continuous attacks on places of worship and Christian settlements, urging global leaders and faith communities to work together for peace.
“In various parts of the world, Christians suffer discrimination and persecution. I think especially of Bangladesh, Nigeria, Mozambique, Sudan, and other countries from which we frequently hear of attacks on communities and places of worship,” he said.
Expressing solidarity with victims of violence, Pope Leo specifically mentioned the families in Kivu, DRC, where dozens of civilians were recently massacred.
“God is a merciful Father who desires peace among all His children! I accompany in prayer the families of Kivu, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, where in recent days there has been a massacre of civilians. Let us pray that all violence may cease and that believers may work together for the common good,” the Pope added.