Sun Jan 26 16:30:51 UTC 2025: ## Pope Francis Urges Peace, Condemns Antisemitism in Sunday Address

**Vatican City** – In his Sunday address from Saint Peter’s Square on January 26th, 2025, Pope Francis delivered a powerful message of peace and reconciliation, while condemning ongoing conflicts and historical atrocities. He began by reflecting on the Gospel of Luke, highlighting Jesus’ proclamation of a “year acceptable to the Lord” and the subsequent rejection by his fellow Nazarenes who, familiar with him, failed to recognize his messianic identity. The Pope drew a parallel, urging his listeners to avoid the same blindness in recognizing Christ’s presence in their own lives.

The Pope expressed deep concern over the escalating humanitarian crisis in Sudan and South Sudan, calling for an end to hostilities and urging international aid for displaced people. He also highlighted the dire situation in Colombia’s Catatumbo region, where armed conflict has caused widespread displacement and loss of life.

Observing World Leprosy Day, Pope Francis encouraged continued efforts to support those affected by the disease and ensure their reintegration into society. He also marked the International Day of Commemoration in Memory of the Victims of the Holocaust, commemorating the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz and renewing his call to eradicate antisemitism and all forms of discrimination. He specifically mentioned Hungarian poet Edith Bruck, a Holocaust survivor, urging listeners to learn more about her story.

The Pope concluded his address by greeting various groups of pilgrims and praising a group of Italian Catholic Action youth who had completed a “Caravan of Peace” initiative, urging them to continue their work of promoting fraternity and peace. He emphasized the importance of education in fostering a more just and fraternal world.

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