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Pope Leo is encouraging Catholics across the world to pray a daily Rosary for peace this October and to act as "instruments" of peace:

"May you be faithful instruments of reconciliation in your daily lives," he said this week, reminding the Arabic-speaking pilgrims present at the Wednesday Audience in Rome that Christians are called "to witness that love and pardon are greater than every wound and stronger than every injustice."

Speaking on Tuesday the Pope referenced the military meeting attended by hundreds of US generals and admirals in Virginia - convened by United States Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth - which explored America's preparedness for war and the use of nuclear weapons: “This way of speaking is worrying,” Pope Leo said, "as it reflects increasing tensions".

On President Trump’s decision to rename the US department from “Defence” to “War,” the Holy Father added: “We hope it is just rhetoric" noting that it demonstrates a style of government “that uses force to exert pressure. We hope it works" he said, "but that there is no war; we must work for peace.”

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‍Source: Vatican News