By Charles Igwe
Pope Leo XIV has called on the people of Algeria and the international community to embrace peace, forgiveness, and reconciliation, stressing that the future of humanity depends on those who actively choose and work for peace.
The Holy Father made this known during his first address in Algeria at the Maqam Echahid Martyrs’ Monument in Algiers, a national site dedicated to those who lost their lives during the country’s struggle for independence. His visit marked a historic moment as the first by a reigning pope to the North African nation.
At the monument, Pope Leo XIV laid a wreath in honor of the fallen and observed a moment of silent prayer before addressing those present. He began by greeting the people warmly and presenting himself as both the successor of Saint Peter and a brother committed to strengthening bonds of unity and mutual respect among peoples.
Reflecting on Algeria’s history, the Pope acknowledged both its resilience and the deep wounds left by past conflicts. He emphasized that true peace is not merely the absence of war but a lasting reality rooted in justice, forgiveness, and human dignity. According to him, peace becomes possible only when individuals and societies consciously choose reconciliation over resentment.
He warned against the dangers of perpetuating cycles of hatred, noting that adding resentment to resentment only deepens division. Instead, he called for a transformation of hearts, insisting that the true victory of any struggle is the achievement of peace within oneself and among communities.
“The future belongs to men and women of peace,” the Pope declared, expressing confidence that justice will ultimately overcome injustice and that violence will not have the final word.
He also praised the values of solidarity, hospitality, and fraternity among the Algerian people, describing them as essential foundations for building a more harmonious society. He encouraged continued dialogue and mutual respect among different cultures and religions as a pathway to unity in diversity.
Concluding his message, Pope Leo XIV urged especially young people to become active builders of peace, working together to shape a future grounded in reconciliation, justice, and shared humanity.
