Pope Leo XIV called on March 13 for Christian leaders involved in armed conflicts to reflect deeply on their actions and seek confession. The pope made these remarks during a speech at the Vatican’s Clementine Hall, addressing participants in the 36th Course on the Internal Forum, an annual training program for priests and seminarians focused on the sacrament of reconciliation.
The pope’s comments highlight concerns about the role of conscience and accountability among those responsible for war. He questioned whether such leaders have “the humility and courage to undertake a serious examination of conscience and confess,” emphasizing the importance of regular confession for all Christians.
During his address, Pope Leo lamented that many Catholics do not take advantage of confession, describing it as an “infinite treasure” that often remains unused. He reminded listeners that since 1215, the Catholic Church has required every Christian to make sacramental confession at least once a year—a rule reaffirmed by the Second Vatican Council.
Quoting St. Augustine, Pope Leo said acknowledging one’s sins aligns believers with God: “God condemns your sins; and if you too condemn them, you unite yourself with God.” He described reconciliation as a “laboratory of unity” that restores relationships with God and fosters peace among people. “Only a reconciled person is capable of living in a way that is both unarmed and disarming,” he said.
The pope also addressed younger generations’ search for meaning, suggesting that dissatisfaction with consumerism could lead them toward faith. He encouraged future confessors to recognize their important role in helping others restore unity with God through reconciliation.
Concluding his remarks, Pope Leo urged young priests and seminarians to be mindful of their calling: “A priest’s entire life can be fully realized by celebrating this Sacrament assiduously and faithfully.”
