HOW PONTIFF LEO SAYS WALK A PATH OF PEACE, NOT CONFLICT, SYNODALITY AND ROLE OF WOMEN, EDUCATION DAY... (1395 hits)
For Immediate Release From Vatican News!
Pontiff Leo: ‘Peace, Not Conflict, Is Our Most Cherished Dream’
Pontiff Leo XIV reaffirms the Catholic Church’s commitment to walk the path of peace with other religions, in a message to an interreligious conference in Bangladesh. By Devin Watkins
Pontiff Leo XIV sent a message on Tuesday to the “Conference on Interreligious Dialogue and Harmony,” held in Dhaka, Bangladesh, on September 6-12.
Cardinal George Koovakad, Prefect of the Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue, read the Pontiff’s message at the event, which he attended with Msgr. Indunil Janakaratne Kodithuwakku Kankanamalage, Secretary of the same Dicastery.
The Pontiff expressed his support for interreligious dialogue and the event’s theme—“Promoting a Culture of Harmony between Brothers and Sisters”—and wished participants the gift of a peace that is “unarmed and disarming, humble and persevering.”
The chosen theme, he said, arises “from the conviction that our human community is truly one—in origin and in destiny under God.”
Pontiff Leo noted that the human family shares both the opportunity and the responsibility to nurture a culture of harmony and peace, pointing out that “culture” can be considered in two senses.
“Culture can mean the rich heritage of arts, ideas, and social institutions that characterize each people,” he said. “At the same time, culture can be understood as a nurturing environment that sustains growth.”
The Pontiff invited religious believers to carefully cultivate a growth-sustaining culture by ensuring the “sunlight of truth, the water of charity, and the soil of freedom and justice.”
He pointed to times when distrust and suspicion have won out between cultures, saying weeds of disharmony then choke out peace.
“Together, as companions in interreligious dialogue,” he said, “we are like gardeners tending this field of fraternity, helping to keep dialogue fertile and to clear away the weeds of prejudice.”
The Pontiff praised the interreligious conference in Bangladesh as a “beautiful witness” that differences in creed or background need not divide us.
When people of difference cultures and religions encounter one another in dialogue, they join forces against division, hatred, and violence, he said.
“Where others have sown distrust, we choose trust,” said the Pontiff. “Where others might foster fear, we strive for understanding; where others view differences as barriers, we recognize them as avenues of mutual enrichment.”
Pontiff Leo XIV then noted that a culture of harmony requires shared experiences, not only shared ideas.
One genuine measure of interreligious friendship, he said, is when people of different faiths work together to serve the vulnerable of society, praising those in Bangladesh who have stood together in times of natural disaster or tragedy.
“Such gestures build bridges—between faiths, between theory and practice, between communities—so that all Bangladeshis, and indeed all humanity, may pass from suspicion to trust, from isolation to collaboration,” he said.
Pontiff Leo XIV then renewed the Catholic Church’s commitment to walking the path of peace and dialogue alongside other religions.
“At times, misunderstandings or past wounds may slow our steps,” he said. “Yet let us encourage one another to persevere. Every group discussion, every joint service project or shared meal, every courtesy shown to a neighbor of another religion, these are bricks of what Saint John Paul II called ‘a civilization of love’.”
In conclusion, the Pontiff assured the interreligious leaders gathered in Dhaka of his fraternal love, and prayed that God might bless Bangladesh with “ever-deepening harmony and peace.”
International Literacy Day: It Is The Foundation For The Digital World
As 8 September marks International Literacy Day, UNESCO releases data and information showcasing that being literate enables people to think critically and navigate the “information-rich society and economy in a safe, effective and responsible manner.” By Kielce Gussie
8 September marks International Literacy Day (ILD). Started in 1967, the day serves as a reminder to world leaders, policy-makers, and the public of the “critical importance of literacy for creating more literate, just, peaceful, and sustainable society.”
As a fundamental right for everyone, literacy is a gateway that enables people to enjoy other human rights, more freedoms, and global citizenship.
Literacy In The Digital Era
This year’s theme is “Promoting literacy in the digital era”, which is focused on keeping literacy as a crucial part of the technological landscape. UNESCO releases a fact sheet for the 2025 Literacy Day, highlighting that the importance of literacy reaches beyond traditional paper-based writing and reading. Rather, “it now serves as a foundation for digital skills, safe and critical engagement with digital texts and tools, and an inclusive digital transition.”
The digital world has transformed literacy policies and programs and how they are implemented. ILD 2025 will look at the challenges, opportunities, and solutions for promoting literacy in the digital world.
A Work-In-Progress
Between 2015 and 2024, literacy rates among adults (people aged 15+) rose slightly from 86% to 88%. Central and Southern Asia are the two regions with the fastest progress, where adult literacy grew from 72% to 77%. Sub-Saharan Africa also saw an increase from 65% to 69%.
In 2024, the global youth (people aged 15-24) reached 93% — which showed a growth in basic education. Yet, UNESCO reports that progress “remains inadequate and uneven” as 739 million adults still lacked basic literacy skills in 2024.
A census taken from 2015-2024 reveals more than half of the world’s illiterate adults – 441 million people – is found in just 10 countries around the world. UNESCO argues the consistent gaps in literacy rates limit the opportunities and “reinforce social and economic inequalities, especially for women, older adults and marginalized people.”
Literacy Is Part Of The Toolbelt For Life
In this technologically-driven world, literacy remains an essential part of life. It gives everyone a chance to fully participate in the digital world. More than giving people access to the internet, being literate enables users to think critically and navigate the “information-rich society and economy in a safe, effective and responsible manner.”
But UNESCO explains not everyone has the tools to confront the digital world and many teachers feel unable to instruct students on how to navigate new technologies. About half of the world’s countries have standards for helping teachers become acquainted with skills to teach students.
Pontiff Leo To Preside At Ecumenical Commemoration Of Modern Martyrs
Pontiff Leo will join with representatives of other Churches and Ecclesial Communities on the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross for an ecumenical ceremony commemorating 21st century martyrs and witnesses of the faith. By Christopher Wells
Pontiff Leo XIV is set to preside at a prayer service to remember the many Christians of our time who have been killed on account of their faith in Christ.
The Holy Father Will Be Joined By Representatives Of Other Christian
Churches and ecclesial communities for an “Ecumenical Commemoration of Martyrs and Witnesses of the Faith of the Twenty-first Century,” which will take place on the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross on Sunday, 14 September, in the Papal Basilica of St Paul’s Outside the Walls.
The Commemoration is an initiative of the Dicastery for the Causes of Saints and its Commission of New Martyrs – Witnesses to the Faith, which was established in 2023 by Pope Francis “to identify the Witnesses of the Faith in this first quarter century and to continue it into the future.”
Speaking on Friday to members of the Ecumenical Joint Working Group of the Catholic Church and the World Council of Church’s, the prefect of the Dicastery for Promoting Christian Unity, Cardinal Kurt Koch, said the commemoration “will give visible expression to the conviction that the Church is already one in the blood of her martyrs.”
Preserving Memory
At a press conference on Monday presenting the Commemoration, the President of the Commission of New Martyrs, Archbishop Fabio Fabene, described the Commission’s work, saying that their research “has embraced all Christian denominations, since the vitality of baptism unites all Christians who gave their lives,” and adding, “thus is realized the ‘ecumenism of blood,’ as Saint John Paul II liked to call martyrdom.”
“The Church is already united,” Abp Fabene continued, “and Pope Leo in turn hope that the blood of these martyrs will be ‘a seed of peace, reconciliation, fraternity, and love.’” The Archbishop added, “The Commission’s work of documentation is meant to ensure these stories are not lost, but preserved in memory."
The 'geography' of modern martyrs Following Archbishop Fabene’s remarks, Professor Andrea Riccardi, Vice-President of the Commission, described the “geography” of the witnesses of the faith, noting witnesses killed in the Americas by organized crime, drug traffickers, or those who exploit the environment; the martyrs of Europe, including missionaries who were killed in distant lands; the persecutions of the Middle East and northern Africa, especially Eastern Christians; and Christians at prayer in Asia, such as the victims of the Easter bombing in Sri Lanka in 2019
Professor Riccardi noted sub-Saharan Africa as the continent “where Christians die most,” pointing to victims of jihadist attacks, as well as ethnic-political violence targeting missionaries.
African women theologians chart new path for a synodal Church Hekima University College in Nairobi, in collaboration with Watawa Wa Taa, hosts the second African Women Theologians Conference, a groundbreaking gathering aimed at amplifying the voices of women in theological scholarship and church leadership. By Sr. Christine Masivo CPS
The Nairobi Conference Entitled “Synodality In Action: Emerging
Ecclesiologies, Vitality of Women and Discerning Leadership for the 21st Century", from 3 to 6 September, brought together renowned and emerging theologians, academics, clergy, and pastoral leaders from across Africa, Europe, and the United States, fostering dialogue on the role of women in shaping the future of the Church in Africa and worldwide.
Addressing The Gender Gap In Theology
Despite decades of progress, theological scholarship within the Catholic Church remains largely male-dominated, particularly in seminaries where the majority of students prepare for the priesthood and ordination. According to the conference chairperson, Sister Jacinta Auma Opondo, (FSSA), a Franciscan Sister of St. Anne and Deputy Principal for Academic Affairs at Hekima University College, this imbalance undermines the mission of the Church. In an interview, she said that “the event was born from Hekima’s mission to amplify African women’s theological voices and that the theological formation cannot be complete without the contribution of women. Forty years after Hekima opened its doors to women, their voices are still underrepresented. This conference seeks to change that by creating a platform for African women theologians to be heard globally.”
The first African Women Theologians Conference, held last year, celebrated the contribution of Hekima to women’s theological empowerment. This year’s follow-up meeting focused on synodality, the Church’s call to walk together in communion and shared mission. The objective was not only to share experiences, challenges, and opportunities but also to strengthen women’s leadership in theological discourse and pastoral practice.
Synodality And The Role Of Women
The conference highlighted synodality as central to Pope Francis’ vision of an inclusive Church. Sr. Jacinta stressed that for women theologians true participation requires education, networking, and leadership opportunities. The event brought together diverse voices, reflecting a synodal Church. A major goal is to create a network of African women theologians to mentor younger scholars, collaborate across disciplines, and influence theological education and parish life through research, writing, and pastoral initiatives.
Voices Of Healing And Hope From The Participants
Sr. Gisela Rfanyu, a participant from Holy Union Sister, a psycho-spiritual therapist and counsellor, explored how counselling can foster healing and reconciliation within a synodal Church.
“I was inspired by the theme because counseling promotes listening, which is vital for building a synodal Church,” she explained. “Theology is not just abstract; it is about encountering God in the realities of life ‘faith seeking understanding’. Integrating pastoral care and spiritual therapy into the Church’s mission is essential for a wounded world, a process of asking deep questions about God and life while remaining rooted in Scripture and tradition.” She believes that African women theologians bring unique perspectives of care, rationality, healing, and inclusivity to the Church’s discourse. They also challenge patriarchal structures and advocate for justice and equality within the Church and society
From Conversation To Action
Participants identified several strategies for integrating women’s insights into theological education and Church structures. These include collaborative formation between men and women, implementing the Code of Canon Law on shared ministries, creating listening circles, and promoting local theological reflections that respond to African realities.
The organizers acknowledged challenges such as resistance to change and limited resources but expressed optimism that dialogue and partnerships will overcome these obstacles.
The Role Of Watawa Wa Taa
A recurring theme at the conference was the contribution of Watawa Wa Taa, an initiative founded by Sr. Mumbi Kigutha (CPPS) of the Precious Blood Sisters in Ohio, to spotlight the presence and impact of African women religious. Acting as an incubator for ideas, Watawa Wa Taa documents stories of sisters engaged in ministries of justice, peace, education, and pastoral care, often in contexts of hardship and marginalization.
“Much of women’s work in the Church is invisible and under-documented,” said the convening chair. “Watawa Wa Taa ensures their stories are told, inspiring others and enriching the synodal journey.”
For Sister Gisela, the initiative is life-changing: “When you educate a woman, you educate a nation. Watawa Wa Taa has supported my theological studies and encouraged me to see that women have the potential to serve the Church in meaningful ways. Listening to senior theologians at this conference has deepened my resolve to continue this journey, and I now dream of pursuing a PhD in Justice and Peace Studies to help bring healing to my war-torn country.”
Pontiff Leo Appeals For Peace In Holy Land, Ukraine, Areas Of World Marred By War
Before leading the recitation of the Angelus prayer with the faithful in Saint Peter's Square, Pontiff Leo XIV asks everyone to pray constantly for peace in the Holy Land, Ukraine, and all lands plagued by war, emphasizing that "God wants peace!"
Following the Mass and canonization of Pier Giorgio Frassati and Carlo Acutis in Saint Peter’s Square, Pontiff Leo XIV said to the intercession of the Saints and the Virigin Mary, may we all entrust our constant prayers for peace in our world, as "God does not want war. God wants peace!"
The Pontiff encouraged everyone to continue their prayers for the people of the Holy Land, Ukraine, and every part of the world plagued by war. To world leaders, he repeated his call that they listen to the voice of their consciences, since "the apparent victories achieved through weapons, sowing death and destruction, are in fact defeats, and they never bring peace or security."
“God does not want war. God wants peace! And God supports those who commit to breaking the spiral of hatred and walking in the path of dialogue.”
Two New Blesseds In Hungary And Estonia
Pontiff Leo also recalled that in the nations of Estonia and Hungary, the Church is celebrating two new Blesseds.
In Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, Jesuit Archbishop Eduard Profittlich was beatified on Saturday 6 September. He was killed in 1942 during the Soviet regime’s persecution of the Church at that time.
Also on Saturday, in Veszprém, Hungary, Mária Magdolna Bódi was beatified, a young laywoman killed in 1945 because she resisted soldiers who tried to assault her. The Pope said the Church is enriched by the witness of these two new blesseds.
Pontiff Leo also thanked everyone - over eighty thousand present - for taking part in Sunday's canonization, a long-awaited celebration, offering his greetings to all the bishops, priests, official delegations and distinguished authorities, and faithful from around the world for their participation and presence.
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Pontiff: Seeing With Mary's Eyes Helps People And Cultures Walk In Peace
Pontiff Leo concludes the 26th International Mariological Marian Congress with a speech in the Paul Audience VI Hall, stressing that the Virgin Mary continues to open doors, build bridges, tear down walls, and help humanity live in harmony amid diversity. By Daniele Piccini
"Contemplating the mystery of God and of history through the inner gaze of Mary shields us from the distortions of propaganda, ideology, and toxic information—none of which can ever offer a word that is both unarmed and disarming. Mary's gaze opens us instead to divine grace, the only true path to enable people, nations, and cultures to walk together in peace."
By highlighting how listening to the Word of God opens the Church to synodality, Pontiff Leo XIV summarized in his closing address the key themes and outcomes of the 26th International Mariological Marian Congress. The event, held in Rome at the Antonianum Auditorium from September 3rd to 6th, was organized by the Pontifical International Marian Academy.
Over four days, approximately 600 mariology scholars from across the globe explored the Congress’s theme: "Jubilee and Synodality: A Church with a Marian Face and Practice."
Two Biblical Categories
The Pontiff pointed out that the title of the Congress itself reflects two “biblical categories”—jubilee and synodality—which powerfully express the vocation and mission of the Mother of the Lord. In her, he said, “we can read the vocation of the Church itself.” Mary thus stands as a model for the Church. “The Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church,” the Pope said, “teaches us how to be the holy people of God.”
From this model, he added, arises the significance of the Pontifical Academy itself, which “rightly reminds us that the Church always has a Marian face and a Marian way of acting.”
A “Jubilee Woman”
Mary, explained Pontiff Leo, is a “jubilee woman” because she always begins anew from listening to the Word of God. She does so with the attitude described by St. Augustine in Book X of the Confessions—not by expecting a desired answer, but by choosing to desire what she hears from God. Like Mary, the Church must never grow weary of engaging in dialogue with God or of asking difficult, even unsettling questions—as Mary did at the Annunciation: “How will this come about?”
A “Synodal Woman”
Mary is also, the Pontiff said, a “synodal woman”, because she is “fully and maternally involved in the action of the Holy Spirit.” The Spirit always calls those who were once divided—whether by mutual distrust or even outright hostility—to walk together as brothers and sisters. Mary is the “perfect collaborator of the Holy Spirit,” he continued. She never ceases to open doors, build bridges, tear down walls, and help humanity live in peace and harmony amid diversity.
A Church With The Face Of Mary
From these two attributes—jubilee and synodality—flows the mission of a Church with a Marian heart. Such a Church, the Pontiff said, “continually deepens its understanding of the hierarchy of truths of the faith, integrating reason and emotion, body and soul, the universal and the local, the individual and the community, humanity and the cosmos.”
A Marian piety and practice, he emphasized, brings the Church’s charitable mission into concrete reality: taking seriously all aspects of human life, especially those of the poor and the marginalized.
Mary: A Path For Cultural Dialogue
Before leading the assembly in the Ave Maria, the Pontiff thanked the Pontifical Academy for its valuable ecclesial service—presenting the image and message of the Mother of Jesus as a path of encounter and dialogue among cultures.
