Pope’s Hospital Plea: War Is Absurd, Pray for Peace

Vatican City: From his hospital bed, Pope Francis delivered a deeply moving plea for peace, calling war “absurd” and urging prayers for conflict-stricken regions worldwide. The Holy See Press Office released his heartfelt Angelus address, in which the Pope expressed gratitude for the support of the faithful during his illness and called for global solidarity in the pursuit of peace.

Pope Francis, who is recovering from a respiratory illness at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, specifically mentioned several war-torn regions, including Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, Myanmar, Sudan, and Kivu. In his address, he emphasized the suffering endured by people in these areas and implored the global community to pray for an end to hostilities.

“From here, war seems even more absurd,” the Pope reflected, underscoring the senseless nature of armed conflict. He highlighted the devastation caused by prolonged wars, reminding the world of the humanitarian crises unfolding in multiple regions. His words resonated as a call for reconciliation and healing in places where violence continues to cause immense suffering.

Ukraine remains mired in a destructive conflict with Russia, which has persisted since 2014, claiming thousands of lives and displacing millions. The Israeli-Palestinian conflict continues to flare, exacerbating instability in the region. Lebanon, grappling with economic turmoil and a refugee crisis, has faced political and social unrest for years. In Myanmar, a brutal military crackdown has followed the 2021 coup, inflicting suffering on civilians. Sudan remains plagued by civil strife, poverty, and humanitarian challenges, while Kivu, a region in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, is ravaged by armed violence and displacement.

By drawing attention to these regions, Pope Francis reinforced the urgency of seeking peace, reconciliation, and humanitarian intervention. His plea was not just a request for prayers but a reminder of the moral responsibility to aid those affected by conflict.

Beyond addressing global crises, Pope Francis also reflected on his own health struggles. He acknowledged that his illness had deepened his faith and strengthened his connection with those who suffer. “It is precisely in moments like these that we learn to trust the Lord even more,” he said, expressing gratitude for the care provided by medical professionals. The Pope also described his condition as an opportunity to share in the suffering of others, offering a message of resilience and faith amid adversity.

He extended special thanks to the doctors and healthcare workers attending to him, recognizing their dedication and compassion. “I thank God for giving me the opportunity to be a partner in body and soul in the plight of so many sick and suffering people,” he stated. His words underscored his belief in finding grace within suffering and using personal hardship as a means of deepening spiritual connection.

As part of his message, Pope Francis urged the faithful to embrace fraternal reform, calling for introspection in how individuals perceive and judge others. “Jesus asks us to train our eyes to see the world well and to judge our neighbor with care rather than condemnation,” he explained. He emphasized that true reform must be guided by fraternity and compassion rather than arrogance or bitterness.

Challenging the faithful to reflect on their attitudes, he posed thought-provoking questions: “How do I see other people, who are my brothers and sisters? And how do I feel about how others see me? Are my words filled with kindness, or are they laced with bitterness and arrogance?”

His emphasis on fraternal reform aligned with his broader call for peace, advocating for dialogue and understanding at both personal and international levels. He urged believers to cultivate a spirit of solidarity, emphasizing that true change begins with individual actions and attitudes.

The Pope concluded his message with an expression of profound gratitude for the support and prayers he has received. “I feel the affection and closeness of all of you. At this special time, I feel as if I am ‘carried’ and supported by all God’s people. Thank you all!” he said, acknowledging the strength he draws from the global faith community.

Pope Francis was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on February 14 due to lung-related complications, including bronchitis and pneumonia. According to reports from CNN, this marks his fourth and longest hospitalization since assuming the papacy in 2013. Despite his health challenges, he remains steadfast in his mission, using even his time in the hospital to advocate for peace and unity across the world.

His poignant message serves as a reminder of the power of faith and the urgent need for global cooperation to end suffering caused by conflict. In his moment of vulnerability, Pope Francis continues to lead with compassion, calling for a world where peace triumphs over war and humanity stands united in hope and solidarity.