Sr. Amata J. Nowaszewska CSFN
“The Polish nation knows well what the tragedy of war is and how much suffering and pain people affected by it experience,” wrote Archbishop Wojda, President of the Polish Bishops’ Conference, referring to contemporary challenges related to world peace. At the same time, he expressed special gratitude to Pope Leo XIV for “courageous words and unwavering fidelity to the Church’s mission.”
Pontificate marked by a call for peace
In the statement, Archbishop Wojda recalled that Pope Leo XIV’s pontificate has been marked by a call for peace from the very beginning. “Peace be with you all!” – the Pope’s first words at the start of his Petrine ministry set the direction of his teaching.
The President of the Polish Bishops’ Conference also quoted the Pope’s statement from his trip to Africa: “I will continue to courageously and persistently proclaim the message of the Gospel, for which the Church exists. We believe in the power of the Gospel as a source of peace and reconciliation among people.”
Unity of the Church in Poland
“The community of the Church in Poland, together with its pastors, assures of prayers for world peace, as well as spiritual support for the Holy Father through the gift of prayer and unity with the Pastor of the universal Church,” emphasized the document signed by Archbishop Tadeusz Wojda.
Reaction of the Church in the USA
Archbishop Paul S. Coakley, President of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, expressed concern over the sharp criticism of Pope Leo XIV by US President Donald Trump.
“I am saddened that the President chose to write such offensive words about the Holy Father. Pope Leo is not his rival or a politician. He is the Vicar of Christ, who speaks based on the truth of the Gospel and out of concern for souls,” he stated in a statement, referring to a post published on social media.
Voice of the Church in Italy
The Presidency of the Italian Episcopal Conference also, confirming “full unity with the Holy Father Leo XIV,” expressed regret over the words addressed to him by the President of the United States.
The hierarchs recalled that “the Pope is not a political party, but the Successor of Peter, called to serve the Gospel, truth, and peace.” They also emphasized that in times of international tension, his voice constitutes a call for respect for human dignity, dialogue, and responsibility.
The Church in Italy once again expressed its closeness, prayer, and goodwill to the Holy Father, appealing for respect for his person and ministry.
