Pope Leo XIV speaks in Metz

Pope Leo XIV spoke at the Robert Schuman Congress Center in Metz on Monday, 28, during a conference titled “At the roots of Europe for peace and unity.” Addressing the gathering, the Pope called for courage in negotiations rather than the illusion of rearmament to achieve global peace. He described ongoing conflicts as a futile massacre and urged for creative efforts to establish peace instead of merely trying to stop the bleeding of war.

The Pope noted that the conference title draws inspiration from Robert Schuman, the French politician who helped shape contemporary Europe through his declaration of May 9, 1950. Reflecting on the continent's history, Leo XIV stated that Europe is a cultural and historical reality that has evolved through various periods of growth and crisis. He also identified Saint Benedict as a foundational figure whose monastic tradition influenced education, science, and politics.

Regarding migration, the Pope stated that human dignity requires the establishment of safe and legal routes.