Pope Leo XIV warns against invoking God to justify war

Pope Leo XIV told religious leaders at an interreligious gathering in Metz, France, that using God's name to justify violence or oppression profanes that name. Speaking at the Robert Schuman Conference Center on September 28, 2026, the pope stated that nothing disfiguring human dignity can be claimed as inspired by God.

During the meeting, the pope said religions must act as guardians of life by remaining present with the most vulnerable and fragile people. He urged religious representatives to turn their differences into opportunities for friendship and peace.

Participants at the event included the chief rabbi of France, heads of Orthodox and Protestant churches, and representatives from Islamic and Buddhist federations. These attendees signed the Metz Appeal to commit to peace, dialogue, and the defense of human dignity.