Pope Leo XIV condemns kidnappings in Nigeria & Cameroon, appeals for release of priests & students, publishes letter for 1700th anniversary of Nicaea Council
Newsroom (23/11/2025 Gaudium Press ) On the Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe, Pope Leo XIV delivered a somber words from the window of the Apostolic Palace overlooking St Peter’s Square, condemning the wave of kidnappings targeting priests, seminarians, and students in Nigeria and Cameroon and issuing an urgent appeal for their immediate release.
Speaking before the midday Angelus, the Pontiff expressed “great pain” for the victims, particularly the many young men and women taken from churches and schools. “I make a heartfelt appeal for the immediate release of the hostages,” he said, “and urge the competent authorities to take appropriate and timely decisions to ensure their release.” He called on the faithful to pray that “churches and schools may always and everywhere remain places of safety and hope.”
The Pope greeted thousands of pilgrims gathered for the Jubilee celebration, offering special thanks to choirs from around the world and extending a symbolic embrace to members of the Italian ACLI from Teramo-Atri and to faithful who had travelled from war-torn dioceses in Ukraine.
Marking the diocesan-level celebration of World Youth Day on this feast of Christ the King, Leo XIV spiritually embraced young Catholics worldwide. “I pray that every young person may discover the beauty and joy of following him, the Lord,” he said, “and dedicating himself or herself to his Kingdom of love, justice and peace.”
Looking ahead to his forthcoming Apostolic Journey to Türkiye and Lebanon, the Holy Father announced the publication today of the Apostolic Letter In Unitate Fidei to commemorate the 1700th anniversary of the First Ecumenical Council of Nicaea, which will be celebrated during his visit to Türkiye.
Concluding his address, Pope Leo XIV entrusted all intentions – the hostages, young people, and the cause of peace – to the maternal intercession of the Virgin Mary before leading the Angelus prayer.
- Raju Hasmukh with files from Vatican.va
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