Our new, American Pope

After Pope Francis ignored the perk during his pontificate, Pope Leo XIV is at Castel Gandolfo for a break to restore his “body and spirit” as he recently said. It’s a return to a centuries-old tradition that brings the new pope to that summer residence perched at 425 meters, above Lake Albano, offering cooler air and calmer atmosphere than Rome’s summer heat.

Aside from this cool news, the new Pope has been vocal and consistent in addressing the conflicts in Ukraine, Gaza, and Iran since the start of his papacy in May 2025. On the War in Ukraine he condemned the war as “senseless”. He also expressed solidarity with Ukrainian Greek Catholics during a Jubilee pilgrimage, acknowledging their suffering and urging faith amid adversity. In his very first Sunday address as pope, Leo called for a ceasefire in Gaza, the release of hostages, and unrestricted humanitarian aid. 

Following US airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites in June, Pope Leo issued a plea for peace, warning that war only “amplifies problems” and causes “deep wounds”. He’s also condemned the logic of “bullying and revenge”, urging all parties—including Israel, Iran, and the US—to pursue dialogue and diplomacy. Not much of the Papal interventions have been reported through a media that’s been largely obsessed with Trump. 

Besides these stances, Pope Leo XIV could drastically deepen his impact by leaning into the Vatican’s unique role as a neutral body and spiritual authority. He could for instance convene an Interfaith Peace Summit by bringing together senior leaders from Christianity, Islam, and Judaism—especially those with influence in the Middle East and Eastern Europe, and use it to condemn violence and call for ceasefires, humanitarian corridors, and negotiations. 

He could also launch a Global “Peace Pilgrimage” Campaign with interfaith partners to host synchronized events—prayers, fasts, and public forums—focused on peace in Ukraine, Gaza, and Iran. Then there’s always a more active, direct engagement with political leaders challenging arms buildup and the erosion of international law. From a religious standpoint, he could also support bishops, imams, and rabbis in conflict zones with resources and platforms to counter hate speech, promote reconciliation, and protect civilians. 

Likewise, encourage interreligious councils in Ukraine, Gaza, and Iran to issue joint statements and mediate local tensions. With strengths in moral clarity and global reach, it’s my belief that Pope Leo holds the power to translate his words into coordinated action, especially with other faith leaders and be instrumental in shifting the narrative from retaliation to reconciliation. 

As Pope Leo gets ready to intervene more forcefully for peace, I wish him a rejuvenating sojourn at Castel Gandolfo!