---
title: Pope Leo XIV Emphasizes Forgiveness and Peace During Angelus Address
url: https://www.faithfulnews.com/en/pope-leo-xiv-emphasizes-forgiveness-and-peace-during-angelus-address
published: 2026-09-16T14:28:21+00:00
language: en
section: World Church
source: https://www.vaticannews.va/ar/pope/news/2026-09/papa-leone-xiv-angelus.html
organizations: Vatican
publisher: FaithfulNews
---

# Pope Leo XIV Emphasizes Forgiveness and Peace During Angelus Address

Pope Leo XIV spoke about the fundamental value of forgiveness in the Christian life during his address before the Angelus prayer on Sunday.

Referring to the Gospel of Matthew, the Pope noted that Peter asked if forgiving a brother seven times was sufficient. He explained that while seven symbolizes perfection and generosity in the Bible, Jesus responded that forgiveness should be seventy times seven, meaning it should be without limit or measure. To illustrate this, the Pope cited the parable of a servant who was forgiven a massive debt by his master but refused to show similar mercy to a fellow servant and was subsequently punished.

Pope Leo XIV stated that forgiveness is essential for living in peace. He warned that without it, conflicts, accusations, hatred, and revenge emerge, which destroy relationships, divide families, and ignite wars. He described forgiveness as a force that liberates and restores light even when material or moral poverty makes the horizon dark. He cited Saint Peter as an example, noting how Jesus welcomed him after his denial with a question of love and a call to follow him, as if nothing had happened.

Following the prayer, Pope Leo XIV marked the twenty fifth anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks in the United States. He renewed his prayers for those who died and those who still carry wounds from that day. He called for global prayer for peace, stating that the memory of the tragedy encourages a renewed commitment to peace through prayer and the intercession of the Virgin Mary.