Pope Leo XIV’s “Courage” Praised by Exorcists as Global Conflicts Intensify

 The International Association of Exorcists commends Pope Leo XIV’s firm stance against war, highlighting his calls for dialogue, spiritual renewal, and peace amid escalating global conflicts.

Newsroom (30/04/2026 Gaudium Press) In a world increasingly marked by war, instability, and political tension, the International Association of Exorcists (AIE) has publicly commended Pope Leo XIV for what it described as his unwavering moral clarity and courage in confronting global violence. In a statement titled “The Courage of Pope Leo,” the association praised the pontiff’s consistent appeals for peace and dialogue, positioning his leadership within a broader spiritual and moral framework.

The statement underscores Pope Leo XIV’s firm condemnation of war in all its forms, emphasizing that since the beginning of his pontificate, he has persistently called for what he describes as a peace that is “unarmed and disarming.” His appeals have addressed conflicts across multiple regions, including Iran, the Holy Land, Ukraine, and various parts of Africa. During his April 13–23 visit to the African continent, the pope repeatedly urged an end to violence, reinforcing his message on the global stage.

That trip, however, was not without controversy. Tensions briefly surfaced between the Vatican and the United States after President Donald Trump publicly criticized the pope on social media. Pope Leo XIV responded by downplaying the dispute, stating that he harbors no fear of the current U.S. administration and remains focused solely on his mission to proclaim the Gospel. He also made clear that he had no interest in engaging in political debate with the American president.

Beyond geopolitics, the AIE framed the current global crisis in theological terms. The association described the state of the world as shaped by a “dynamic of evil that runs through history,” invoking biblical references to the devil as the “prince of this world” and the “father of lies.” Yet, the exorcists emphasized that human beings retain moral responsibility, underscoring the Church’s teaching that individuals are free and called to choose good over evil.

According to the statement, the escalation of violence cannot be understood solely through political or social analysis. It reflects a deeper crisis within the human heart—one “wounded by sin” and often unable to recognize truth and goodness. This moral and spiritual dimension, the AIE argued, is essential to understanding both the persistence of conflict and the path toward lasting peace.

Reaffirming the Church’s mission to proclaim that “Christ is our peace,” the association expressed its “filial closeness and support” for Pope Leo XIV. It described his efforts as part of the Church’s universal mandate to promote peace and justice, rooted in its divine foundation.

The statement also offered concrete guidance on how peace can be pursued, emphasizing that it must begin at the personal and communal level. The AIE urged individuals not to grow weary in working for peace, calling for efforts rooted in prayer and expressed through tangible acts of reconciliation. These include fostering forgiveness within families and communities and engaging in sincere gestures of healing and unity.

Among the spiritual practices recommended were Eucharistic adoration, recitation of the rosary, fasting, and works of mercy. The association described these not merely as devotional acts but as “concrete ways for building peace,” linking spiritual discipline directly to social transformation.

Central to the AIE’s message is the idea that peace cannot be separated from spiritual liberation. Authentic peace, the exorcists stated, requires freedom from sin and resistance to the influence of evil. In this context, “spiritual combat” is presented not as an abstract concept but as an enduring reality within the Church’s historical journey.

The statement concluded with an appeal to the Virgin Mary, invoked as Queen of Peace, asking for her intercession to guide world leaders and enlighten nations. The exorcists expressed hope that humanity might receive the gift of reconciliation and a peace grounded in Christ, ultimately fulfilled in eternal life.

As global conflicts continue to unfold, the AIE’s message situates Pope Leo XIV’s calls for peace within a broader spiritual narrative—one that frames the struggle for peace not only as a political necessity but as a profound moral and spiritual challenge.

• Raju Hasmukh with files from CNA

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