Pope Leo XIV condemns religious manipulation
Pope Leo XIV has issued a statement condemning those who manipulate religion for military, economic, or political purposes, quoting Jesus's words on peacemakers. This comes amid ongoing public criticism from U.S. President Donald Trump during the Pope's tour of Africa. The pontiff's remarks appear to be a pointed rebuke of geopolitical actors who use faith to justify conflict or policy. The statement underscores the Vatican's diplomatic stance amid heightened global tensions.
The Pope's statement includes a direct quote from Jesus: 'Blessed are the peacemakers,' followed by a warning against those who 'manipulate religion in the very name of God for their own military, economic, or political gain, dragging that which is sacred into darkness and filth.'
The Pope's direct quote has been released, emphasizing a warning against "dragging that which is sacred into darkness and filth."
