Pope Francis asked for prayers for peace in Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, the entire Middle East, Myanmar, and Sudan today, before reciting the Angelus prayer with the faithful in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican. He urged, "Let the weapons be silenced everywhere, and let the world hear the cry of the people demanding peace.

This morning, the Holy Father celebrated a Mass in honor of the Jubilee of the Armed Forces, Police, and Security. In his homily, he thanked them for their work and affirmed that their mission is great, intertwined with various aspects of social and political life: defending the homeland, committing to citizen security, upholding legitimacy and justice, being present in detention centers, combating crimes, and addressing different forms of violence that may threaten social peace. He also mentioned those who serve during natural disasters, protect the environment, save lives at sea, care for the vulnerable, and promote peace.

He acknowledged military chaplains, who represent an important priestly presence among them. He stressed that their presence is not to bless evil acts of war, but to be a representation of Christ who wants to walk with them, listen to them, be close to them, encourage them to venture into the deep, and support them in their daily mission. He added that they are a source of moral and spiritual support, walking with them on their journey and helping them perform their duties in light of the Gospel and in service to the good.

The Pope expressed his gratitude for what they do, even when risking their lives for us. He thanked them for boarding dangerous boats and providing protection. He encouraged them not to lose sight of the true purpose of their service and actions: to promote, save, and always defend life. He asked them to remain vigilant against the temptation to cultivate the spirit of war, not to be deceived by the myth of power and the noise of weapons, and never to be poisoned by the propaganda of hatred that divides the world into friends who must be defended and enemies who must be fought. He called on them to be witnesses to the love of God the Father, who wants everyone to be brothers. He said, "Let us walk together to build a new covenant of peace, justice, and fraternity.

The Holy Father referred to the teachings of the Church and the Second Vatican Council about the role of the military: "Those who perform their duties in the military service of their homeland should also consider themselves as servants of their people's security and freedom." The Pope emphasized that this military work must be carried out exclusively within the framework of legitimate defense and never used to impose control over other nations, with a constant commitment to international agreements on conflicts, and above all, within the sacred respect for life and creation.