On Palm Sunday, Pope Leo XIV made a strong call for peace during Mass at the Vatican, telling worshipers that God does not hear the prayers of those who wage war.Thousands of people gathered in St Peter’s Square for the service marking the beginning of Holy Week leading up to Easter. Palm Sunday commemorates the entry of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem, when the people welcomed him with palm branches.In his sermon the Pope said that violence cannot be justified on the basis of faith. He described Jesus as the “King of Peace” and said that leaders who shed blood cannot expect their prayers to be heard. “God rejects the prayers of those whose hands are full of blood,” he said, adding that true faith must be reflected in actions, especially when those actions affect innocent people.The Pope also expressed concern for communities suffering due to war and conflict, particularly in the Middle East. He said that many people are not able to celebrate the Holy Week normally due to violence in their areas.The Pope reiterated his call for dialogue and a peaceful solution. He said prayer alone is not enough if it is combined with acts that cause harm. He has previously called for a ceasefire and urged world leaders to prioritize humanitarian needs over conflict.Palm Sunday Mass marks the beginning of the most important week in the Christian calendar. This is followed by Good Friday, which commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus, and Holy Saturday, which is followed by Easter Sunday, which celebrates his resurrection.This year, the Pope’s message focused on the responsibility of the faithful to choose peace and reject violence. He reminded worshipers that faith and war cannot co-exist and encouraged them to support those affected by the conflict.His comments come amid ongoing global tensions and wars, reinforcing the church’s long-standing message that religion should promote peace rather than justify violence.