Pope Leo XIV Leads Global Rosary for Worldwide Peace
Pope Leo XIV has extended a heartfelt invitation to Catholics everywhere to unite in prayer by joining him for a special rosary dedicated to peace on May 30.
The Holy Father will lead the devotion live from the serene Lourdes Grotto within the Vatican Gardens at 7 p.m. Rome time. This initiative, organized by the Dicastery for Evangelization, aims to bring believers together across continents in a powerful moment of shared faith and hope amid ongoing global conflicts. The call comes as a continuation of the Pope’s consistent messages urging prayer as a force stronger than any human power.
Several renowned Marian shrines are participating in this synchronized prayer event, creating a beautiful tapestry of devotion from diverse corners of the world. These include the Shrine of the Mother of God in Zarvanytsia, Ukraine; Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage in Antipolo, Philippines; Our Lady of the Rosary in Fátima, Portugal; Our Lady Queen of Peace in Medjugorje, Bosnia and Herzegovina; the Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes in France; St. Charbel in Byblos, Lebanon; and the Holy House in Loreto, Italy. In the United States, the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C., will join through a livestream at 1 p.m. ET, led by Monsignor Walter R. Rossi. This collective effort highlights the universal desire for harmony and healing.
During his recent Pentecost homily, Pope Leo emphasized turning to the Holy Spirit for strength, asking for deliverance from the scourge of war, which he noted can only be truly overcome through the power of love rather than force. His pontificate has featured repeated appeals for peace in regions including the Middle East, Africa, and Ukraine. The upcoming rosary gathering represents a practical response to these concerns, inviting people of all ages to pause and contribute their prayers to a greater cause of reconciliation and tranquility.
This worldwide initiative offers a timely opportunity for spiritual unity at a moment when many nations face uncertainty and suffering. As shrines and faithful join in prayer from their respective locations, the event promises to foster a deep sense of connection and renewed commitment to peace. Catholics and people of goodwill around the globe are encouraged to participate, adding their voices to this collective supplication for a more peaceful world.
